Cherry Skies

Chapter 14 - Temptations

Before Kaitlin realizes it, Saturday morning arrives. She's tied up in knots in her stomach. Not even able to enjoy breakfast from feeling like she's about to puke, she sits there with her eyes saying everything for her.

"I know, Katie bug, you're feeling nervous, and that's expected. Eat some toast and drink a little juice and breathe. You'll be fine. You have me, Logan, and Aunt Lucy in your corner. So, eat, and let's check out, and I can't wait to see you out there riding," Elizabeth says.

As her mother suggests, Kaitlin gets a piece of toast with some strawberry jam accompanied by some apple juice. She's trying to keep her composure about being the newbie competitor.

While Elizabeth makes her way out to the SUV to make sure everything is packed, Kaitlin rinses out her glass and tosses her paper plate into the trash can. Not long after she makes her way into the living room, she's greeted by Lucinda and Logan waiting on her.

"Mind if we tag along?" Her Aunt Lucinda asks.

"No, please come. I need you both there. I don't think I can do this!"

"Oh, Katie, you got this girl! We believe in you!" Logan states with a firm and soft pat on Katie's shoulder.

Together they meet Elizabeth out at the SUV. Once they get loaded up with a cooler filled with bottled water and snacks for the two-hour drive to Cheyenne, they drive out to the training ranch to meet up with Lindsey and Daniel and the others competing along with Kaitlin.

"Alright, we're loaded up! Let's head on out to them pastures and win!" Daniel yells out from the front of his truck, getting the kids psyched up.

Along with two other cars in the middle, Elizabeth is the tail end of the vehicles' small caravan. As they approach the outdoor arena, the sounds of the announcer's running tests over the PA system while other riders stand near their trailers, preparing to compete.

By the time they park and gather by the horse trailer, Kaitlin's nerves begin to tighten.

"Alright, my young riders, remember, no matter what happens out there, be proud of the fact that you are here. You are competing and remember this if nothing else. You're not the same young people you were even a few weeks ago. Some of you are more experienced than others, so guide them, tutor them, and above all else." Daniel pauses to create a dramatic effect, "HAVE FUN!"

With a couple of deep inhales and slower exhales, Kaitlin goes over to Gunner to calm herself down. She stands there petting him with her eyes closed. She dips her head waiting for the signal to head out to the arena.

"She's registered, and she'll be on within the first thirty minutes," Lindsey informs Elizabeth while they stand near Kaitlin and Gunner.

"Let her do her thing. She's new to this; if she does half as well as the day I watched, then she is going to do well." Elizabeth mentions softly not to disturb her daughter.

The spectators gather in the stands, and music fills the air while they wait for the competition to begin. The smell of popcorn, corndogs, funnel cakes, candy apples, and other concessions creates a warm and greeting sensation to the crowd. Music and announcements leading up to the kickoff of events after the national anthem is played and everyone stands in respect.

Before she realizes that all that time has passed, Kaitlin is nudged when Lindsey tells her that it's time.

"Hey, kiddo, you got about 5 minutes until you're on. Just remember to breathe and take it one turn at a time. There are only four barrels, and that's it. Need anything?"

After a quick, shallow breath, Kaitlin shakes her head no and gives Gunner one last stroke along his mane.

"Let's do this, buddy boy!" She proclaims, shaking off her nerves as best as possible.