An older girl in her teens opened her dream glazed eyes. As the baby blue windows got clearer the day's happenings came back to her.

Michelle still couldn't believe it! After all this time, she was finally going see Alex again. It had been five years since Michelle had last seen him. Then, he was only an immature boy with no realistic ideas and a wild imagination. His passion lie with the horses, as did his dreams. He's probably changed by now though, living in the city and all. To Michelle it was a disappointing thought and she pushed it to the back of her mind before it could crush her mental image of the boy she used to know.

Michelle brushed a brown baby curl out of her face with a long-fingered, slender hand. For a sixteen-year-old, Michelle was extremely tall and slim. She was more of an adult than a child though she wasn’t much on the humorous side. What took wits’ place was a grave sense of responsibility completely alien for her age. Instead of playing and socializing with others, Michelle would go out and spend time with Fancy, her horse, or simply wander the forests around the Montana ranch she where she was born and living.

She gracefully rose to her feet, off the soft turf of the meadow, and brushed away the leaves that had fallen on her blue flannel shirt. As she walked to her free-grazing horse, Michelle clucked a few times then began stroking the black mare lovingly. Fancy lifted her wedge shaped head and nickered softly in greeting. Her large, violet eyes held a warmth that conveyed perfectly the way that girl and horse felt toward each other. When Michelle cooed gentle sounds to Fancy, the mare perked her ears up and nuzzled Michelle's shoulder with a lightly whiskered nose. Michelle scratched expertly under the large horse's chin and along the throatlatch to the jowls. Fancy stretched her elegantly curved neck out, loving the attention.

Michelle gave Fancy a few more pats then balanced herself on her toes and vaulted onto Fancy's back, straddling the bare back easily. It was a smooth movement that was more natural to Michelle than breathing. Her father had once told her that she had a 'pretty seat' and rode with a natural, unconscious grace. As she signaled Fancy to go, Michelle felt the powerful and familiar muscles moving beneath her. Her thoughts drifted to a two-year old Quarter horse filly that was brought to her three years ago. She couldn't even start to imagine how lonely she would be now if Fancy hadn't come into her life.

"Come on Fancy, let's head home. Come on, girl."

Michelle applied gentle pressure with her calves to Fancy's sides and the mare lengthened her stride to a smooth canter. Michelle relaxed and let herself move with the mare. The girl’s long legs were hanging loosely against the horse’s satiny, black flanks; her body conformed to the shape of Fancy’s back.

Fancy had great conformation and a nicely sloped shoulder. Her legs were swiftly long and she had a clean stride - clean enough for the blue ribbon at multiple shows. The beautiful mare had intelligent eyes and a personality to match. She was stunning to look at with her powerful hind quarters and muscled yet still feminine shoulders, withers, and neck. Michelle had immediately fallen in love with the fancy looking filly, and so the name. Fancy had white frilly socks up to the shanks and cannons on all four legs.

Michelle shook her head to clear her thoughts and started looking around, observing minute things and appreciating it all. The morning sun was glinting off the blanket of diamond-like dew covering the surrounding vegetation. The birds were starting to wake up the world with their beautiful songs. A gentle breeze stirred the morning air and sent puffy, white clouds scuttling across the sky. Two hawks on the wing were gliding in the air draughts high in the endless blue. Michelle’s gaze lingered longingly on the life-mated pair, soaring above everything and never forlorn. This was the world that Michelle Valentine had always known and hoped she would never have to leave; this was her home.

The two companions topped a tiny hill and they could see the huge, sprawling ranch. Fancy snorted with anticipation, knowing that she would soon be getting fed. The mare quickened her pace down the hill. The breeze was teasing and playing with girl and horse hair, shifting it into eyes and tickling ears.

Once on flat ground Michelle leaned over Fancy's neck, her cheek resting on the smooth skin; the mare took that as a sign to go. . . and she did! The cool morning air whipped Michelle's hair and Fancy's mane right into the girl's face. Nothing could be better than this, not even flying! This fleeting thought brought to mind the image of the hawks and Michelle pictured her and her horse as those birds, flying in their own right.

Fancy slowed voluntarily as they reached the boundary of the ranch. They skirted around the wall of bushes deliberately planted to form a natural fence until they reached the dirt rode leading into the heart of the ranch. Soon they trotted under the ten-foot long board that had ‘Fancy V’ burned into it. Michelle stopped Fancy and nimbly hopped off her back, the girl’s blue eyes still bright with excitement. Michelle started to walk to the corral. Without a halter and lead rope or even a bridle, Fancy would go where ever Michelle went, so that guiding the trusting horse wasn’t of any concern to the teenage girl. When Michelle reached the small meadow-like corral, she turned Fancy in. She then put fresh water into the bin and also a little hay on the ground. As a special treat, Michelle put warm mashed oats in a bucket and watched with glee as Fancy dipped her nose into it and started to slurp up the meal. Fancy lifted her head as Michelle started to walk away and soggy oats clung to the horse’s whisker hairs. Michelle chuckled and started down to the main house to get her own breakfast.

Her family’s ranch, the Fancy V, was built on a plateau that rose slightly above the surrounding forest. The only exception was the north west side; there the forest rose above their ranch’s dais. There were all kinds of wild flowers and in the spring, the flat ground was covered with lush, green grass. Nearby was a creek that came right out of a mountain, and directly on the property, by the stables, was a natural spring. Her father had built a little stone wall around it, about two feet high. Then he had dug a little depression by the seepage area so that the spring would form a small drinking pool. If Michelle was lucky, in the early morning she could see deer and other wild life come to drink in peace. It was here that the ranch was supplied with its water.

No place else could possibly seem as close to heaven as my home here, thought the spirited girl to herself. Michelle reached the house and walked through the kitchen door. The smell of bacon and eggs hit her in a cloud that made her nose quiver and her mouth water in expectation. Goodness, I’m no better than Fancy!

"Good Morning, Michelle. Did you enjoy your morning ride?" The question need not have been asked for Michelle’s eyes were sparkling and her cheeks were flushed from the cool, mountain air. Her mousy hair was tousled from the wind. Her mother had seen her daughter in the state of pure bliss before and the question was rhetorical.

"As always! Summer is definitely coming, I can just feel it!"

"Well, your breakfast is on the table, but before you eat could you go get that brother of yours up?"

"Sure, Mom. 'Morning, Dad."

She skipped up the stairs and burst into Danny's room with a flourish and a slamming door.

"Wake up, Pip-squeak!! It's breakfast time!" With that she slammed the door shut again and ran back down the stairs before a well-aimed pillow could find its mark; her head. Halfway down the stairs she heard a light thud as a pillow thumped the door. Michelle smirked impishly. Five minutes later, a bedraggled Danny made his way down to the kitchen and to the table. His flannel shirt was only partially tucked in and his socks didn’t match. His sandy brown hair hadn’t been touched yet and errant hairs were sticking up in the back like a horn. He looked like he’d just gotten up! The boy’s twelve-year-old mouth had a sulky set to it until Michelle started to tickle him and he couldn't help laughing. Danny stuck his tongue out at his bigger sister but his eyes belied his actions.

Michelle's dad was already seated at the table and her mom was seated soon after Danny came down. The small family had a quick and quiet breakfast so that her dad could start working. Dylan Valentine started and trained horses. In his daughter’s eyes he was the best horse-worker in all of Montana, for he was gentle and knew how to get the best out of the horses. This was what the ranch did; it was a horse ranch, breeding and training.

When they finished eating, Dylan went out to work and Danny got ready to do his chores. The only ones left in the kitchen were Tallia Valentine and Michelle.

Michelle helped her mom gather the dishes and Tallia started to clean them. Michelle grabbed a towel out of a drawer and dried the newly cleaned plates and silverware. Her mom gave Michelle a `Lets talk' look. The teenager suppressed a sigh and set herself to listen.

Her mother’s brows were knitted together and her full lips were pursed in thought. Her hands were washing the dishes but her thoughts were elsewhere. Michelle could just see the wheels turning inside of her mother’s strawberry-blond haired head. Tallia Sehant Valentine didn’t look like she had spent her life on a ranch. Her skin was a milky white and velvety soft. She always smelled of vanilla and cherries, and would be one of those women who was given the face that would never age. The harsh winters and hot summers that usually left the skin leathery and dry had been defeated by Tallia. And when you looked into the woman’s eyes, you saw where Michelle had gotten her direct and disturbing ice blue stare.

Michelle’s mother looked thoughtful for a moment longer. Then her brow smoothed and her eyes flicked a sideways glance at her daughter. She opened her mouth as if to say something, closed it and finally began.

"Michelle, how do you feel about the Raves coming to stay with us for the summer?"

Michelle felt like sighing at the simplicity of the question, but then she repeated the inquiry in her mind and had a feeling that her mother wasn't just talking about having people stay in the house that usually weren't around. Her mom was asking her about Alex, in her own weird ‘mom’ way. Michelle decided to ignore the double meaning.

"No problem, Mom. It's not like I don't know them!" Michelle tried to sound exasperated but she was working too hard at not laughing.

Her mom looked reluctant to accept that answer, but instead she just shook her head and continued on.

"Okay. I just wanted to ask something of you. Try to be nice to hi-. . . them. " Again Michelle noticed the round-about way her mom mentioned Alex. Why all the beating-around-the bush? Was something wrong? "And helpful. Both of you have grown up a lot in the past few years."

"Yes, Mother. . . see ‘ya later!" Michelle felt relieved that the conversation was over. She turned to walk out the door and then. . .

"Michelle! Wait. Just one more thing; the Rave’s should be here in about four and a half hours." Tallia’s eyes were glinting in a maddeningly amused way.

Michelle felt her eyes widen and her mouth fall open, un-hinged.

"See you later, dear." Again that little glint.

Michelle slowly walked out the door and blindly stumbled to the corral.

Back inside the house, her mother couldn't help cracking a smile at her daughter's surprise. This will be an interesting summer, she thought to herself. I wonder how they'll get along. . .

Talking to Fancy, the few hours just flew by; as if they were on the back of Sky Bolt.

The only way Michelle knew that they had arrived was by the pricking up of Fancy's ears toward the road. The black cones quivered and they piqued the girl’s curiosity. Michelle opened the gate, mounted Fancy and rode out of the meadow a little ways to see what had attracted the horse's attention. As Michelle got nearer to the road, she could see a dust cloud and a little red jeep. In the back seat was a silhouette of a boy with shoulder length brown hair that she knew to be seventeen years old.

Michelle continued to ride Fancy to the ranch gate, not bothering with a saddle. As she got closer, she also saw that he had brown puppy-dog eyes. Familiar memories crowded her brain. When the jeep came to a stop by the towering gate she greeted the family.

"Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Rave. Hi, Alex!"

She got three generous and weary smiles.

"Is this ‘Little Michelle’? My how you've grown! The older you get, the more like your mother you look. The resemblance is remarkable!"

Michelle felt herself blush at the motherly comment and compliment from Denise Rave, Alex's mother.

While Michelle had been greeting the newcomers, her parents had come down from the house. Her mother had cleaned and freshened herself up. She looked stunning, even in the simple cotton dress. Her slim figure was accentuated by the dress’s ankle-length body and tailored waist. Her blond hair shimmered down to her waist, falling in perfect waves. Only rarely did Michelle see her mother’s hair down: it was either in a bun or braid.

Her father, too, had cleaned up. His deep brown hair was loosely slicked back, but his short bangs still flopped forward to frame his gray eyes. He was still in jeans but had changed into a long sleeved, collared shirt. He’d also shined his boots. Dylan Valentine had had those boots for as long as Michelle could remember. As a little girl, she used to think that he even slept with them on.

Together her parents looked as they must have when they first got married. Neither of them were older than thirty-five and neither of them looked older than thirty. Often Michelle had been mistaken by others as her mother’s sister. Both, mother and daughter were flattered.

"Denise!"

"Tallia!"

"Hey, Dylan. Had any interesting customers lately?" Always business. . .

"Nice to see you again, Eric. Well, I just got a colt that. . ." Michelle just rolled her eyes at the predictable way that the men’s conversation rolled around to business and money. It’s funny, she thought speculatively. Women spend the money, but it’s the men who talk and brag about it!

While the four adults talked and hugged, Alex had gotten out of the car and made his way over to Michelle, who was still mounted on her magnificent Fancy.

Michelle had started to observe the way the adults acted when a voice called up to her. She slipped off Fancy's back, much to the awe of Alex, so she could talk to him at eye level. But. . . she found that this would not be easy since Alex had long ago passed her up in height. He was a good three inches taller than Michelle. Wow, I guess time does change things, thought Michelle dubiously.

Alex started again, now that he had her full attention. His voice was still strong but he found himself more self-conscious now that the girl’s disturbing blue gaze was boring into him.

"She'll actually let you ride bare back like that? No bridle, nothing?"

Alex had a soft but confident voice. Michelle liked the way that the corners of his mouth seemed to curve slightly; it looked as thought they had a life of their own. As she replied she realized that she was already taken with this boy who might as well be a stranger.

"Well, yah. I've been around her since she was just a filly and helped my dad train her, but mainly she does it because she wants to. If she didn't want me on her back, I wouldn’t be up there. Anyway, she likes what she’s doing and she's won quite a few contests. Barrel racing, cutting, Western pleasure. . . all that. She even does some English categories. Fancy’s my pride and joy and nothing could take her place."

Right away she knew he hadn't changed much from what she remembered. Michelle remembered what her mom had said and suppressed a chuckle. Don’t worry, Mom, she thought to herself, I’ll have no problem helping him out. . .

"Come on, I'll show you what she can do."

Michelle led the way and they walked to the field with Fancy between them; a silent, four-legged mediator. They spent the rest of the afternoon with Fancy and each other's company. Michelle was inwardly surprised at Alex's knowledge about horses and his easiness around them. While Alex was outwardly appraising of Michelle's fine horsemanship and . . . maybe a little bit more.

Their parents had to call them in for supper or they would have stayed outside all night, guided by the light from the stars and moon.

"And I thought they would be shy around each other," the parents were all joking.

It took no time at all for the two teenagers to get reacquainted and feel completely comfortable around each other. The horses helped a lot, though the teenagers might not have known it. It could also have been a need to make up for lost time.

In a few days a regular routine had started. While Michelle was always with and riding Fancy; Alex and Tharo-a handsome gray gelding with a silver mane and tail--had taken a liking to each other. Tharo always was good at picking out the good ones, Michelle thought wryly.

For the first week, Michelle showed Alex around their ranch and let him get acquainted with all the work hands and animals. There was Jim, one of the other starters; Myke, the one who helped find the good horses and the ones to start; and Aaron, the one who took care of all the horses and made sure the ranch was kept in order. He was next in line to Michelle's dad in power. He was also Michelle and Alex’s favorite. Aaron was always ready with a story about cowboys or how the ranch used to be. The two kids loved him and talked to him at every opportunity.

The old man’s leathery face seemed to be older than the hills and more worn. Along his right jaw bone, from ear to clefted chin, was a thin scar many years old from a knife fight. His eyes were a soft brown that never held anger or impatience. When he spoke of Indian raids, his eyes would seem to glow from the inside and his gravelly voice would enchant all listeners. Aaron had one of those voices that when he spoke you automatically paid attention. Instead of stooped, his back was ramrod straight and proud; his legs bowed but strong from more hours in the saddle than on his own feet. His most striking feature though was his shock of silver hair. His pelt was thick and in perfect contrast with his sun-tanned face. To Michelle and Alex’s imaginative minds, Aaron was a spitting image of the old time cowboys; one of the last of his breed.

By the second week Alex was taken with everything at the ranch, even ornery Brombie, who nipped at Alex whenever he passed by his stall; the boy had already lost two good shirts that way. His city-bred mind didn't know what he would do when he left. Alex came to love the afternoon forays into the forest just as much as Michelle, if not more. He drank it in, as if he would never come again. Sometimes in the forest, Alex would just close his eyes and think of nothing but the beauty around him and... maybe one other thing. Yet when he'd open his eyes he'd see Michelle looking at him with a kind of weird expression on her face and a strange light in her disturbingly blue eyes.

Michelle, on the other hand, was taken more with him. She'd find herself trying her hardest to impress him, and stealing every chance to look at him or be around him - which wasn't very hard since they were always together. She surprised herself with the way she felt toward a person she hadn’t seen in years, and yet Michelle didn’t want it to end.

Most of teens’ time spent together was spent in a little glen by a clear spring that came right out of a hill. It was clear and sweet; the best kind. Alders and aspens, tangy-smelling pines and willows all shaded the leave covered ground. This was, as Michelle thought, her glen and she had shown no one until she showed Alex. He was in awe of the little clearing where time seemed to stop and everything was as it should be.

By the end of the first month, Alex was riding better than Danny and was able to keep up with Michelle. When he sat his saddle, you could believe that he’d been riding for years. Michelle was amazed at the speed in which he learned to ride. She had had in mind a city slicker who just kicked the horse and expected the horse to go. Instead, he had an ingrained respect for the horses and, in return, the horses accepted his command and listened to him.

Early one morning it rained a bit, but by the mid afternoon the day was beautiful. All the trees were freshly green and the ground smelled earthy and moist. The after math of a slight shower was irresistible to the young girl’s sense of spirit and Michelle couldn't stay in; Alex couldn't help following her. She saddled up their horses and brought them out. They mounted and started toward the trail that led to Michelle's glen. The air was crisp and clear and Fancy was restless. The black mare tossed her silky black head and pranced on dressage-material hooves. Her tail was up and she was excited by all the puddles. Michelle felt it and let the mare have her head. Fancy took one little step then bounded into a gallop. The move took Alex by surprise and it took a few seconds before he could jump into action; but in a moment, he and Tharo were galloping after them.

Fancy slowed as they reached the edge of the forest and the trail. Fancy’s sides were heaving from the physical exertion and there was a light sheen of sweat on the mare’s neck and flanks. Then Michelle remembered Alex. She turned Fancy around and saw man and horse flying towards them. As Alex reined Tharo to a halt besides Fancy, his eyes glittered with excitement. Michelle felt and looked the same.

"That. . ." Alex was breathless from the excitement of the run and was breathing deeply.

"That was like flying; better than flying. It's something I'll never forget. Thank you, Michelle."

His gratitude towards her surprised Michelle.

"Don't thank me, thank Tharo. He's the one who took you on that magnificent ride." Her incredulity showed in her voice and she didn’t try to hide it.

"But, I must thank you too, because if you hadn't of taken off, I would not have done that or had that experience. Thank you!"

Michelle just smiled and shrugged. She hadn't done it for him; she had done it for her and Fancy. Oh well, she thought. Heck, I don’t mind the praise! Michelle turned her horse and started towards the trail.

Alex watched Michelle as she continued on. The girl and horse looked to be one, moving in smooth, fluid movements, gracefully synchronized. If Fancy moved, Michelle moved with her; riding seemed to be second nature to Michelle. Alex took pleasure in just watching the lanky girl ride. The way she communicated with her horse was so slight that you’d think they were telepathic. Michelle had a firm yet gentle touch that didn’t demand obedience but received it regardless. It appeared that Fancy moved almost before Michelle had to communicate anything, like Fancy knew what she was expected to do. I wish I could ride like her, Alex thought longingly.

Michelle rode to the trail and took the lead. It was about a fifteen minute ride to the glen. Two-thirds of the way down the trail, Michelle heard Tharo whinny nervously and Alex's calming voice trying to soothe the frightened horse. Tharo blew hard and Michelle heard his bridle jingle as he vigorously shook his head. Michelle turned Fancy around, wondering what had spooked the usually calm horse, and saw Tharo rear up and jump down with all his might on his front legs. It was then that Michelle realized what had scared the horse.

A snake was on the side of the trail. In fear it had frozen but was coiled and ready to fight. Tharo reared up one more time. . . one time too many. Alex lost his seat, let go of the reins, and flew back off the rearing horse. He landed on his ankle and yelped sharply as it twisted beneath his full one hundred twenty-six pounds. His eyes bulged in pain and then fluttered closed. His face had a sallow hue and his lips were compressed in a soundless signal of pain. Deep creases divided his face into agony-wracked valleys.

Tharo - unaware of what he had caused - squealed in a stallion-like sound of victory, wheeled around and galloped back to the ranch; where he knew he would find safety.

During all this, Fancy had been dancing nervously and the last staccato squeal of Tharo's was the final straw. She crow hopped and started to bolt, but Michelle had a firm hand on the reins and in moments Fancy was settled back down again. Her eyes were still wide and rolling but her pricked ears were listening intently to the whisperings coming from her rider.

The snake was thoroughly dead and half-way buried, struck by Tharo's heavy hooves. Michelle slid off Fancy's back and, reins in hand, picked the snake up and threw it into the underbrush. Fancy snorted her disgust and tossed her head. The mare clearly did not appreciate the dead snake’s presence. Michelle rubbed her hand on her jeans, trying to get rid of the snake scent, and started to stroke Fancy. The familiar voice and touch calmed the mare as nothing else could do because this person was related to a sense of safeness.

Once Fancy was no longer a threat to herself and the humans around her, Michelle threw the reins over the horse's neck and let the mare stand where she was. Michelle walked over to Alex, who was white as a sheet and tenderly holding his sprained ankle.

Michelle noticed that he was scared but trying not to show it and immediately knelt down to see what she could do. She had a little medical experience but not enough to do any good. She didn’t even have a first aid kit with her. Some experience, Michelle thought bitterly. After looking at the swollen ankle, she realized what she would have to do.

"Alex," At the mention of his name, he opened his eyes. They were glazed with pain. The skin was stretched taunt over his high cheek bones. His lips were compressed into a tight, straight line. Michelle restrained the hand that wanted to give him a reassuring touch and continued. "I'm going to have to go back and get Tharo to get you home. I wouldn't dare ride double on Fancy; not with the condition she's in. I hate to leave you here alone but that's the only choice. I'm going to slide you back against this tree so you can rest. Don't move until I get back."

Michelle pulled Alex back to the tree and made sure he knew he was not allowed to move. There were multiple dirt smudges on his face and as a thought occurred to her, Michelle chuckled a little. She got a curious look from Alex and quickly suppressed the laugh. What a thought. . .

"Okay," was all he could say and still remain conscious.

Michelle reached out and grasped his hand for a moment before starting back to the ranch.

"Michelle. . ." The girl twisted with one foot in the stirrup at Alex’s thin, tenuous plea. "Hurry." His simple statement drove home his pain to Michelle’s brain. All she did was nod though.

As she thundered back up the trail the thought occurred to her again. Even in dirt he’s cute! Michelle chuckled again as Fancy galloped back to the ranch.

Alex stayed where he was until he could no longer hear the staccato of hoof beats and painfully started to get into a position where at least he could crawl. . .

Michelle rode Fancy as hard and as fast as she dared. After ages, or so it seemed, Michelle arrived at the ranch gate. Tharo was standing there, his head hanging and his front legs spread with weariness. His eyes were no longer wild but there was sweat lathered along his flanks and neck and it was dripping off around the saddle. Michelle leaped off Fancy, grabbed a handful of grass and quickly rubbed down Tharo. Then she snatched

Tharo's reins, mounted Fancy and took back off towards the trail. Her experienced mind was screaming at her that she shouldn’t be asking this much of the horses but in her haste she repressed the persistent voice.

Halfway up the now dry trail she found Alex, thoroughly unconscious. He was dirty from crawling and probably in a lot of pain. Michelle felt a flash of deserved anger that quickly melted away when she heard the soft mewling sounds coming from the faded lips set in the pain distorted face.

Michelle dismounted and made Tharo kneel. The gray was winded and his mottled sides were heaving. She carefully, slowly, and painfully got Alex on the gelding's back. Alex murmured lightly as Michelle jumped onto Fancy's back and started back to the ranch.

On the way back, Michelle was able to observe Alex openly. She had tied Alex into the saddle with the halter rope. The rope went across his waist and then beneath the horse’s girth to tie around the boy’s ankles. His hands were tied to the pommel with the reins. He slumped over in the saddle with his chin touching his slowly rising chest.

Alex’s clipped nails were cracked and torn and filled with rich, brown earth. There were scratches along his shirt sleeves from dragging himself along the ground and his light blue denim shirt was now black with rotted leaves and humus. His faded blue jeans had grass stains all along the sides that even her mother might not be able to remove. He looked pitiful and in need of care.

The return trip took almost twenty-five minutes because Michelle had to go much slower for the wounded rider. Alex’s right ankle hung out of the stirrup for the angle at which his foot would have to be held would only worsen his pain.

When Michelle finally got to the ranch, she went right to the kitchen door. The horses’ hooves clicked hollowly on the cement porch outside the kitchen. Boy, is Mom going to be mad, Michelle thought abstractly. She could already see the silver scuff marks that the horse shoes were leaving behind. In her urgency she forgot to adhere to her mother’s rule, " Horses outside, me inside!"

Their parents had heard the horses coming back and went to meet them at the door. When they saw that Alex was hurt, the two dads went out to lift the still unconscious boy off the horse and into the house. The two mothers, in turn, went to the weary Michelle. Michelle's mom took the two horses to the stalls and got them settled while Denise Rave led her into the house. The men were getting Alex cleaned, bandaged, and set up in his room; the women were down stairs, talking to the sleepy-eyed girl; trying to get the story out of her.

Finally around seven o’ clock; after repeating the story again to the fathers - this time a little clearer and even impatiently - she went into her room; which was connected to Alex's room by a door, and got cleaned and ready for bed. The soft goose-down pillows beckoned and the turned down sheets looked welcoming. Michelle eyed them briefly before turning her back on them.

Before she went to bed, she went into Alex's room. He was sleeping lightly, and when she opened the connecting door, he opened his eyes. The brown, mournful shaped windows were unclear and puffy around the edges from sleep. Michelle sat in the chair by his bed and he smiled. She just sat there and watched him as he dropped back into sleep. When he was dreaming once again, she tip-toed back into her room and dreamed dreams of her own. As the girl slept, a slight frown creased her forehead and tugged at her lips as her mind recalled the day’s startling events.

In the morning, her stomach was telling her to eat. As her father would say, "My stomach has wrapped around my spinal cord and started to eat itself." Yet instead she went to the parents talking in Alex's room. She didn’t knock in her anxious anticipation of wanting to know how things were going.

As she stepped into the room, the adults grew silent. Not a good sign, she thought to herself. She said good morning to each person in turn then directed her gaze to Eric Rave.

"How is he Mr. Rave? I thought maybe his ankle was just sprained real bad, but I wasn't sure. It sure swelled a lot."

"Yes, you were right. His ankle is sprained quite bad, but he should be fine." He smiled at the worried girl to give her some reassurance and then left the room. Once he left, all the parents seemed to decide it would be a good time to leave. As her mother left, she gave a departing wink. A few moments later the only people in the room were Michelle and the now alert Alex.

"Good morning, Alex."

" `Morning," was the smug reply. The tone Alex used made all of Michelle's sympathy dissipate, and in its place anger filtered through. He was acting as if she had done nothing.

As she continued to look at him, her ire built until she could no longer restrain it.

"Alex, not even a fool would have tried to walk, or even crawl in your condition. I told you I was going to get your horse yet you still tried to do what you thought you should do. Humph! Look where that got you!" Michelle punctuated this last stinging remark with a very unlady-like snort of disbelief. The latter for her emotional outburst and Alex’s stupidity.

Alex’s eyes were no longer gentle and flashed with fury and indignation. He was about to say something but at that moment Danny walked in and announced that breakfast was ready. The interruption allowed Michelle to gather her thoughts and her emotions. Once Danny was gone and his footsteps were retreating, Alex took his turn.

"Fool? Excuse me, Michelle, but I wasn't going to let a girl, of all people, help me. I have pride too ya’ know!" He hated to resort to boy/girl but his humiliation wouldn’t allow anything else. The thought of an apology spidered across his shield of anger and then was gone.

Michelle was taken aback at the vehemence and scorn in his once gentle and reassuring voice. The look in his eyes was one she had seen many times before. The look was passed between stallions before a fight; a look of complete fury and confidence. A slight chill crept up Michelle’s ramrod straight spine. She suppressed a shiver and thought, What have I done?!

"Alex-" It was a strangled half cry and Michelle couldn’t believe that it had come from her. She stared at him; her eyes mirroring her feelings. Alex's face flushed with anger and embarrassment; Michelle turned on her heel and stalked out of the room. Yet, in the hall outside his door, her anger subsided and she could only feel regret. She thought about how all they had wanted was to go riding and this was what happened. How did the day get so messed up? Michelle thought silently. She was about to go back but now her pride was the culprit of keeping the argument from being resolved.

"Michelle, come back. . ." Alex’s voice was pleading. It pulled at Michelle but instead she walked down stairs with her head hanging limply on her neck, feeling very confused and upset.

After breakfast, Michelle was surprised to see Alex up and getting around; with the help of some crutches. There was a stiff, impenetrable silence that only deepened as the day went on. The two friends avoided each other all day, and at dinner there was a silence between Alex and Michelle so thick that you could have cut it with a knife. It was all the adults could do not to demand an explanation. The thought that kept flashing through their minds was, What went wrong. . . ?

After dinner, Denise Rave and Tallia cornered Michelle and asked if anything was wrong. All Michelle said was that she and Alex needed to talk some. As she pulled away from the loving hands, she almost regretted not telling them about the argument. Instead, she went to the one person she could talk to with no prejudice - Fancy.

Michelle stayed out until the setting moon drove her in. She had groomed Fancy so thoroughly that even in the uneven moonlight, Fancy shone like a black diamond. Her mane was braided in an intricate weave and her tail was made of multiple little braids. If only there were a show tomorrow, thought a sorrowful young girl. Then all this work wouldn’t be for nothing.

As Michelle was walking back to the house, she saw a familiar shadow cross in front of her. When she looked up she looked into the kind, old eyes of Aaron - her godfather. His hat was pulled low but the brim couldn’t hide his puzzled expression.

"Hey, bright eyes, what’s been going on? You’d think it was winter ‘round here or somethin’. Is everything all right?" Aaron’s soft voice was like sand paper. Yet there was no mistaking the concern. Michelle also noticed his nickname for her. Aaron only called her ‘bright eyes’ when something wasn’t right and he needed to say something important.

Michelle fought the tears that had been threatening to fall ever since ‘the argument’. Aaron was truly concerned about his ‘little cowgirl’ and had dredged up a lot of courage to ask Michelle what her parents couldn’t. Michelle decided that her old friend deserved the truth.

"No, everything isn’t all right," Michelle said with a deep sigh. "Me and Alex. . . we’re not. . . I mean, we got. . . we’re not talking anymore because we got in an argument last night," she finished in a rush. All of a sudden Michelle found herself pouring out her story to Aaron’s attentive and sympathetic ear. By the time she had reached the past day, gut-wrenching sobs were being ripped from her throat. Michelle tried to stop the steady flow of tears but her efforts were futile.

Aaron’s eyes glistened at his little girl’s unhappiness and he folded his strong arms around her, drawing the hopelessly weeping body towards him and giving her the comfort that she needed. He rocked her back and forth and hummed a soothing melody into Michelle’s ear. Once she cried herself dry, Michelle pulled away and wiped her face; ashamed at her performance.

"It’s all right to cry, Michelle. Sometimes it’s better that you do cry." Aaron’s tone wasn’t admonishing or reproving, only understanding and kind. He didn’t even have to be told what Michelle had been thinking, the look of shame had been in her eyes. Michelle stood and hugged the rugged old man tight in a wordless thanks. She smiled for the first time that day.

"Now look what I’ve done," Michelle joked in a rough, tear-strained voice, "I’ve gotten your shirt all wet and salty. Sorry."

Aaron just laughed and walked her to the back door of the house. He hugged her good night and wished her sweet dreams, then sent her up to bed. Michelle walked up the stairs to her room in a daze, her eyes unfocused and thinking.

She had never known her grandparents on either side. Her mother’s parents lived in Europe somewhere, completely cut off from the Valentine’s. Tallia’s parents had disapproved of her marriage with an ‘uncouth, uncivilized rancher’ and would have nothing to do with them. Her father’s parents had died before Michelle was even born though. It was said that her grandmother had died of cancer and her grandfather had died from heart ache at the loss of his beloved. So all her life Aaron had been her grandfather, the mutual love there as strong as if they shared blood lines. Aaron was something as solid as the mountains, the river, the horses; something that would never leave or abandon her.

That night in bed she thought of all that she and Alex had done together and wondered if this situation would ruin the bond that had formed between them without either of them even knowing. The thought of no longer being around Alex hurt and salty tears stung the corners of Michelle’s already raw eyes. One lone tear slid down a sun tanned cheek and stained a small circle on the white pillow case. The emotionally wrought teenage girl slowly fell asleep; the tear drying into a salt path being the only evidence of her distress.

For the whole next week nothing happened. Michelle couldn't get up the nerve to confront Alex. The same struggle was raging inside of him. Both felt the loss of the other’s company as an unhealed wound inside, something that could only be cured with the other's company. Sometimes, by accident, they would run into each other. The chance they have to patch things up is filled up with mutterings and hanging heads, instead. After each of these meetings, Michelle would talk with Aaron and feel somehow refreshed and ready to try again. One bright afternoon, an afternoon that the two teens might have spent in the glen together, they met.

Michelle had gotten up early, felt restless and wanted a good run this morning. She got out Fancy and decided against the saddle for this ride. The morning felt too special to be hindered by such incumbencies as a bulky saddle. She ran Fancy hard to the alternative trail to her glen; a trail she hadn't even shown Alex. Yet, at this moment she was glad she hadn't shown him. Once again, something was hers. . . and only hers.

Incidentally, at that same moment, another was awake in the house. He sadly watched the frustrated girl ride away to a place that was unknown. His brown eyes were filled with a longing that he'd never felt before and a rush of feelings that lay unexpressed in his heart. Alex got dressed and went to get Tharo saddled and ready for a ride to the glen.

Michelle continued to ride down the narrow trail, not aware of the yearning eyes that followed her. Once she reached the glen, she slid off of Fancy and let her graze. She sat down on the cushioned forest floor. She closed her eyes and let her mind drift. Michelle’s eyes got that far off, dreamy look in them and she didn't even notice the quiet thud of hooves until the unknown person - that could only be one person - was practically on her. She opened her eyes slowly, not sure she wanted to see what was in front of her.

Alex didn't expect Michelle to be in the glen and was surprised to see her sitting there. He pulled Tharo up short and just sat there looking at her. She almost looked as if she were asleep. When Alex noticed that Michelle's eyes were slowly opening, he got ready to go. . . but his legs and hands wouldn’t give the signals they were supposed to give. Besides, Tharo had planted his legs and Alex didn’t think Tharo would move if he, Alex, wanted him to.

Once Michelle's eyes were opened, her thoughts were confirmed; quite happily in her mind. Now we can talk. . . Alex was sitting on Tharo, so strong and reliable, both horse and boy. Michelle just looked, not speaking, and Alex caught his breath. She noticed that he was riding well now, even with his sprained ankle, and that he sat in the saddle as if he was born into it. Alex noticed how blue her eyes were.

Since Michelle hadn't greeted him or even acknowledged him, Alex wheeled Tharo around and galloped back down the trail. Michelle didn't stop him, though she was so disappointed he hadn't stayed that tears threatened to fall. Can’t I do anything right this week?! She closed her eyes again, only this time it was to hold back the hot tears.

The rest of the week followed suit. Though one night Michelle finally got up enough nerve to go into his room and talk to him, but when she walked into his room he wasn't even in there. She just slammed the connecting door and cried herself to sleep; tears of frustration mingling with her tears of loss.

On the first Tuesday of the second month, Michelle finally cornered him by ‘accidentally’ finding him in the stable yard with Tharo. She had quietly taken Fancy out to let her run and just happened to run into Alex on her way out. She took a deep breath and rushed in.

"I noticed that you could ride again. After your done running Tharo, would you like to go riding?" Michelle hoped that she didn’t sound too desperate.

Alex looked surprised at her request and then relieved that someone had broken the silence.

"Sure! I'd love to go riding-" The need to talk hung in the air after the sentence cut short.

They saddled up Tharo and then rode out. Alex noticed how Michelle was able direct Fancy without any reins. He asked her how and she said her knees and the shifting of her body. Michelle made a comment about teaching him how and he jumped at the chance. They continued riding for about another mile and a-half, then stopped in a small valley. They both dismounted and Michelle hobbled Tharo and let the horses graze on the rich valley grass. Michelle stretched out on the valley floor and Alex did the same. Michelle snuck a look out of the corner of her eye and saw Alex looking at something in the grass. He looked so vulnerable. Oh, I’ve been such a fool! Michelle couldn’t believe how she’d acted. She spoke first.

"You know, I. . . I am really sorry about yelling at you the other day. I know how pride can get in the way of reasonability."

Alex looked ashamed and small spots of color bloomed on his face.

"I'm sorry too. You knew better than me yet I wasn't willing to listen. Kinda stupid, I guess."

Michelle blushed. She didn’t think that his apology would make her feel so bad. At that moment Alex realized his luck and acted on impulse; he leaned over and kissed Michelle. Michelle was surprised, her eyes wide and very blue, then leaned forward. It was Alex who pulled away.

"Wait. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that. It's just that you're so different and. . . and I couldn't stop myself. Sorry," he finished lamely. Michelle didn’t think she’d ever seen anyone so red before.

"Yah. . . I guess," Michelle admitted reluctantly. " Maybe we went a little too far, but I feel as if you never left; like I've known you forever." Michelle was looking directly at Alex with her penetrating blue gaze. Her delicate brows were pulled together in a slight frown, marring her beautiful face. For the first time in two weeks, Alex looked back and smiled a warm and meaningful smile. The frown disappeared and a smile brightened the girl’s face from a storm cloud to a summer day.

Alex and Michelle sat for a while, comfortable in the mutual silence and only occasionally talking. When they finally rose to leave, they hugged tightly and mounted their horses. On the way back, Alex realized how lucky he really was. Not many get a girl like Michelle, and he was happy that God had saved her for him.

When they reached the ranch, both of their parents smiled and all of them sat down and talked about nothing in particular. Michelle thought it strange how adults’ thoughts ran along the same lines and so blatantly, for the four adults obviously knew that something had changed and it was clear that they thought they knew what had had happened. She kept herself from laughing and said nothing.

For the two teens, the next two weeks were spent training Alex to ride bare back. Michelle told Alex that all he needed to do was get the rhythm of the horse; it wasn't quite that easy. While he was getting the rhythm, he had to keep his balance; without stirrups that wasn't easy. At times it was frustrating, but in two weeks, Alex was sitting Tharo quite well without a saddle. They would go for long forays into the forest. The trips were special for Michelle and Alex because it was time for them to be together and do nothing but talk. The horses took the time to stretch their legs and get their exercise.

Michelle's parents were quite nice about it all, not minding all the time they spent together. In fact, she had noticed private, secretive smiles being passed among the adults. I wonder if there are wagers, too. . .

The ‘couple’, as their parents called them, even ventured hand-holding a time or two.

The second month flew by faster than the first in a flash of summer. The trees were still flowering and the animals were still showing off for each other. Michelle and Alex had startled a deer family one evening ride. The buck had beautiful rack and the fawn had lost its spots to age. Bird song was abundant and colors were still bright as the sun. Even Alex has acquired some extra color. The thought made Michelle giggle, much to the curiosity of Alex.

During dinner one night, Michelle's dad mentioned going into town for some stuff. He said that he and Aaron would probably be going in the next week and for everybody to put together a list of wanted articles. Michelle’s breath caught in her throat and she said she would be glad to go, but her father was unsure and protective of his ‘little girl’; he said he would have to think about it. His reluctance didn’t slow Michelle down at all, she was determined to finally make the trip into town.

That night, Michelle went into Alex's room and asked him if he would mind going too - for safety and company. Alex didn't even have to say yes; his eyes said it for him. Michelle was overjoyed but resisted the urge to jump up and hug Alex in thanks.

The next morning, Michelle told her father her proposition.

"Father, I talked it over with Alex and he said that he wouldn't mind going with me to town. So it's not like I'd be going alone. Plus, it's only two days. Please, Daddy; you told me last year that when I got older I could go into town on my own. Well, I am older and have no problem taking care of myself. Come on, Daddy. Pleeease."

Her father could never say no to Michelle, though she never really asked for anything big. Being an only child, she got whatever she wanted. Yet Michelle had an unusual sense of responsibility for her age and she never took advantage of her father’s weakness. Whenever she called him Daddy and widened her beautiful blue eyes, he couldn’t resist her. Maybe she has learned how to manipulate her old man, Dylan thought skeptically.

He smiled slightly at the thought of her asking Alex and her thinking that he might say no to going along with her. He thought of how the two kids had grown together during the past two months. Amazing. . then again, maybe not, he thought. He brought his thoughts back to the problem at hand and nodded his head slightly in agreement. Michelle was shocked but that quickly passed; then she jumped up and hugged her father so tight that he could hardly breathe. She let go and ran up to Alex's room to tell him the news. Once Michelle had flown up the stairs, Dylan looked to Tallia for assurance, but his wife only smiled and squeezed his hand gently.

Michelle, on the other hand, was so excited that she didn't even bother to knock on Alex's door; she just burst into Alex's room - unexpected. She was lucky that he had finished getting dressed. When she burst in, he was tucking his shirt into his jeans. She was so embarrassed that she jumped back out the door and closed it. She jerked her hand off the doorknob as if it was a red hot coal and stepped into the middle of the wide hallway. She heard chuckling inside and blushed deeply. A moment later, she tentatively knocked on the door.

"Why knock this time," was the reply. Michelle thought he sounded mad and slowly walked in.

Alex had positioned himself in his room so that when Michelle walked in, she had no choice but to look right at him. He had the biggest smile on his face she had ever seen!

"I'm glad you're not mad at me, one week of that is enough for this girl. It's just that my father consented to letting us go to town and I thought you ought to know." She blushed and an embarrassed smile flickered on the corners of her mouth, turning it up delicately.

Alex just laughed - a light, chuckling from deep in his throat, like a purring cat - and sat down on his bed. Michelle sat down on the chair next to his head board and watched him put on his boots.

"Have you ever had a girlfriend, Alex?"

Alex looked up. He didn't take the question as prying; they talked about everything to each other. He looked into Michelle's blue eyes and found it only an innocent, curious question. Her eyes never left his face, meeting his eyes evenly and honestly, wide with disarming innocence.

"Wow, you don’t pick the easy ones do you, Michelle. To answer your question though: No, I haven’t. . . not until you anyway." He said the last part so quietly that Michelle could not even be sure that she had heard it. She looked at him and he was concentrating on something on the floor. He looked up and she saw that he wasn't joking. He looked so vulnerable, wondering if his statement would be accepted or scorned.

Michelle got up and walked over to him. She gave him a peck of a kiss on the cheek then went back and sat in the chair. That answer was enough for Alex and he smiled a brilliant smile. Gosh, he has a smile warm enough to melt a snowstorm, thought Michelle adoringly. She hoarded his smiles like treasures and felt like when he smiled, he smiled only for her and nothing else.

"We should be leaving, let me think. . . in about five days."

Alex nodded, and Michelle continued.

"We'll probably leave around five in the morning. You should pack a pair of jeans and a shirt, maybe a blanket and then I'll carry the food and any other things we night need. If there's any other necessity you might want, you can pack it, but try to pack light so we can make good time."

During all of this, Michelle had been ticking off the items on her fingers. When she looked up, she realized that she had listed everything just to be around him. And by the look on his face, he had already planned to pack light and knew what he was doing. Michelle felt her cheeks burn and she looked quickly at the floor.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make it seem like you didn't know what you were doing." Michelle mumbled softly into thin air, not looking at Alex.

Alex just got a puzzled look on his face; then resolution.

"You know. . . it seems like you sure apologize a lot. I didn't think that you thought that. I just figured you wanted to make sure I knew." Alex’s voice was gentle but firm. It didn’t hold anger but genuine puzzlement and belief in what he said.

Michelle couldn't believe her luck. Of all the guys in the world, he was the son of her parents best friends. She just smiled to hide her joyous bliss and walked on air to her room.

Five days later, as Michelle was packing her bundle, Alex came in and sat down on her bed.

"You're already done? What time did you get up?" Michelle's sarcastic surprise made Alex chuckle dryly.

"Guys don't have as much to pack as girls. Guys could careless what they look like, so they don't have as much to pack."

"Ohhhh, is that so?"

Alex just laughed again and walked back to his room, leaving the connecting door open. Not that he has to worry about good looks, Michelle thought, heaving a mental sigh.

"Okay, Alex, I'm done. Let's go down to breakfast." She finished tying her bundle and walked out into the hall, where Alex was lounging against the wall.

They walked side by side down the stairs. Every now and then their hands would brush and eventually their hands became entwined.

When they reached the kitchen, the only other ones up were Michelle's parents and Alex's father. They sat down for a bacon, pancakes, and eggs breakfast. There was a little talk but mostly a comfortable silence.

When they had finished breakfast, the two kids went out and walked the morning wild out of their horses. Tharo had a little more spunk in him than Fancy but even when Michelle and Fancy were done, they continued to walk beside Alex and Tharo, just for companionship.

Once the quartet was done walking, Alex and Michelle saddled up their steeds and tied their bundles on behind the cantle. Michelle's mother pushed a little more food on them and then kissed both of them. They both were kissed or hugged good-bye by each parent. Even Danny was up to say see the teens off.

When all was done, the two travelers mounted up and started to ride toward the gate. At the gate, Michelle twisted in the saddle and blew kisses to her parents and the Raves. She faced forward again and they continued out the gate.

Once out of sight, the parents went back to the house and continued to talk, as if nothing had happened. Their complete trust was in their children. They saw no reason to worry. Besides, Michelle and Alex would gladly take care of each other.

Michelle was very somber and didn’t have much to say. She realized how much her parents respected and trusted her. She also realized the control she would have to have during the time she and Alex would have together. So much responsibility; Michelle craved it.

She and Alex talked on and off until lunch where they turned off the road and ate in the shade of the trees. Alex made sure that he was sitting close enough to be able to touch her hand but far enough away not to be offending her privacy. Michelle was touched emotionally by his consideration. After lunch, they struck out again and the talk flowed a little more freely.

"Last night, you said I was your girl friend. Did you really mean that?" Michelle felt anxious but knew that none of it showed in her voice.

It was hard to read Alex's face with the bounce of the horse’s step but he seemed thoughtful.

"Well. . . this is the closest I've ever been to a girl before. And I do wish I were staying longer."

That was the end of that conversation. Another one went like this.

"Michelle, when did you first get up on a horse?"

"It would seem I was practically born on one," she stated with a chuckle. " The earliest I remember was around one. I would sit between my father's knees and just love the feeling of the air on my face. There’s never been a time when I couldn’t remember myself on a horse. I'm almost more comfortable on Fancy's legs then my own."

Alex looked surprised and envious. Michelle could understand. In the city, you don’t exactly have the open range to take advantage of, or the horses.

"I'm almost jealous of all the time you get to spend around horses. In the city, to even speak of horses makes you a laughing stock. Though, as long as I can remember, I've always loved horses. Maybe it was the stories of long rides that my parents used to coax me to sleep with. Then again, maybe it's just in my blood."

Michelle laughed at the dreamy expression on Alex's face. The memory of a boy and girl struck her and she just nodded her head in absolute agreement.

They reached the town a few hours before dusk and Michelle led the way to her friend's house where they would stay for the night. It was a two-story cabin with rustic furniture and modern conveniences. There was also a beautiful and artful garden beneath the kitchen bay window facing east.

As the riders approached the house, they saw a waving figure beckoning them over. Michelle and Alex dismounted and then stabled their horses and got some dinner. Talk was small and soon the two weary travelers went to sleep.

Jill Onklently was pleasantly plump with soft gray hair and a finely featured face. She must have been quite a beauty in her younger days, thought Alex privately, though he’d never tell Michelle that. She had a comfortable home and they slept soundly. When they woke they felt refreshed and ready to face the coming day.

The next morning, they woke up extra early and went outside to watch the sunrise together. They both knew that they would cherish the moment of the first rays for a long time. The sky became a rainbow of pinks and oranges and yellows that was reflected on the two young, upturned faces.

Once the sun had risen and the magic had dissipated, they went inside and found that Jill had already started breakfast. They each quickly ate a plate of toast, eggs, and crisp bacon. Then Jill, drove them to town to get the supplies they needed for the rest of the summer.

The shoppers finished around ten in the morning. The truck was much laden with salt, meat, cloth, jars, seeds, and other much needed materials. The threesome drove back to Jill's house and ate some lunch. Alex and Michelle walked around the nearby city streets for a couple of hours. To Michelle the city was almost stifling; no open range, no horses, no chuckling river. Though Alex seemed to be right at home, sometimes it was hard for Michelle to remember that Alex hadn’t always been at the ranch. There wasn’t much talking and after a while they went back to get ready to go. They thanked Jill for her hospitality and got the horses saddled up and weighted down.

Jill came out to see them off. Even with the extra weight, Fancy and Tharo were ancy and rarin’ to go. Strange enough they made better time on the way back and were home in a few hours. Their parents seemed surprised to see them so soon, but welcomed them warmly.

The adults wanted to know all about the trip to and fro and were told. Michelle basked in the praise from the adults for taking on the big responsibility and pulling it off successfully. Alex just enjoyed sitting back and seeing Michelle so happy. He couldn’t even imagine what he would be doing right now if he hadn’t come here. And to think that I almost decided not to come, Alex pondered.

After dinner, Michelle went out to see Fancy and thought about Alex leaving. I've never felt this way about anyone before either, she thought. Fancy was glad for the attention but Michelle's agitation passed through the air; Fancy nuzzled Michelle's shoulder and hand more than usual. Michelle realized that she would always have Fancy, no matter what. This calmed her. Michelle enjoyed watching her horse when she was relaxed. Fancy’s ears were perked but trembling with happiness. Every now and then, her nostrils would flare in a soft, loving whicker. Michelle would whicker back and then blow into Fancy’s nose. She knew that that action would forever cement the bond between human and horse.

Michelle was out with Fancy for about an hour when she felt another presence enter into the stables. She guessed who it was but didn't say anything. Her back was turned towards the door so the intruder couldn’t see her expression - a slight smile turned up the corners of her full mouth, her eyes were a sparkling blue with untold secrets.

She heard soft footsteps behind her, trying to be quite. Then a hand covered hers and an arm went around her waist. The touch was light, asking to be accepted. Michelle leaned back and met Alex's clear eyes. She giggled and tickled his sides. He pulled back and laughed.

"So. . . if that's how you're going to play." And he lunged towards her. Michelle was quick and easily dodged him; then she ran out the stable door. She took off around a corner before Alex could see where she had gone. The reward for a ‘won’ game of hide-and-seek better be good, thought Alex wryly.

Michelle hid behind the saddle shed. The smell of old leather and oil wafted out on the cool evening breeze. The odors danced around her and the dream of the two kids came back to her; her eyes glazed over with memories.

As Alex came jogging toward an old shed, he saw an out-of-place shadow and stalked forward. Michelle didn't even hear the shadow behind her until it was too late. Alex had her around the waist again and wasn't about to let go. He had started to tickle her and then stopped. Michelle’s eyes were deep azure pools and he felt an invitation He leaned down to kiss her and his grip loosened. Michelle took the opportunity and slipped out of his grasp. She laughed gaily and kicked up her heels toward the stables. Alex chased after her and found her sitting quietly outside Fancy's stall. The mare’s dark head was hanging over the edge of the door and was now resting on the girl’s broad shoulder. Michelle’s hand was lovingly scratching Fancy’s under chin.

Alex gently pushed the wide face away and sat down besides Michelle; he didn't touch her. Michelle leaned against him and he, then, put his arm around her.

"Now what was that about?" Alex tried to sound serious but a tremor of good humor slipped through. His voice was hypnotizing and Michelle closed her eyes. A dry smile played at her mouth, making it twitch.

"I just felt like making you work for something. That's all." She snuggled closer against Alex's warm side. Is that supposed to be an answer? a confused Alex thought. Oh well, women...

"Come on let's go sit under that big tree outside."

The two got up and walked over to the tree. They both sat down the way they were. The pungent smell of night flowers drifted through the night air. The river was soothing and homely. Like Alex, thought a cloudy-minded Michelle. She was so comfortable around Alex that it was hard to believe that it hadn't always been this way. Michelle looked up at the pronounced jaw, the soft brown eyes, the constantly smiling mouth. She reached up and lightly kissed Alex. He just smiled and pulled Michelle closer. He smelled like the earth and she breathed him in.

They sat that way for quite some time, taking comfort in each other, words not being needed. Then the rising of the moon took them into the house. They went in the back way so no one would see them and they snuck up to their rooms. They talked far into the night; as if they had just met, and when they finally did go to bed, they hugged first then wished the other sweet dreams.

The rest of Alex's stay seemed to disappear. No sooner had he arrived, then he had to leave. Alex, and mostly Michelle, could not believe it when it was time for him to go. One morning it was just there and it hit Michelle in the gut like a horse’s kicking hoof. She couldn’t believe he wasn’t going to be there anymore, the rock-like presence would no longer be there for her to lean on. The emotion she felt was too strong for tears - a deep loneliness.

Michelle helped Alex take his bags out and then they walked to the stables to say their last good-byes.

Alex stroked and combed Tharo before he could face the fact that it would be awhile before he would see Michelle again. They had already exchanged addresses, and promised to write. When Alex had finally pulled himself together and was ready to say good bye, Michelle beat him to it. She wouldn’t look him in the eye and talked softly into the ground.

"I can't believe that this summer went so quickly. Almost disappointingly fast. It's funny; I was expecting a city boy who thought everyone who lived in the country was a ‘hick’. You were the exact opposite. I hope you weren't too disappointed with this place. It's nothing like the city, but it's home. I hope that you'll come back next summer. These three months just weren’t enough!"

Then she gave him what he'd wanted for a long time. Michelle kissed Alex. They pulled apart and Alex's eyes glittered.

"How could I be disappointed with ‘this place’ while you’re here?"

Then Michelle gave Alex the gift that she’d been working on in her free time. It was a knotted key chain made from Fancy’s tail hair and Tharo’s tail hair. ‘Alex’ was knotted in silver with the black knotted around it.

"I made it so that you wouldn’t forget the bond we shared, a bond created by our two four-legged friends who were completely oblivious to the gift they gave us." During all this, Michelle had been looking directly into Alex’s face, truth and love making her shockingly blue eyes shine with unshed tears.

They walked back to the car and Alex climbed into the back seat. He rolled down the window. Alex couldn’t stand that there be anything between them to separate them. God, what is it going to be like with hundreds of miles between us, Alex wondered sadly.

The parents were too busy saying their own good byes to notice the couple.

When Mr. Rave started the engine, Michelle brushed Alex's arm with her hand and gave him a peck on the cheek; then the Jeep was turning around and the Raves were off. She waved until they were out of sight and then went to go talk to her friend Fancy, the one whom she could always lean on and talk to.

When she reached Fancy's stall she led the mare out of the stables, jumped on Fancy's back and took off to where she could just talk. . . To the place that was no longer hers but theirs. . .

Two young kids, a boy and a girl, chasing each other around a patient horse's legs, not the least bit scared. . . . .they've finally grown up. . .