When Life Races You By

Chapter 16

I sat in the plane seat, looking out the window. Melbourne’s city lights were creating a glow on the horizon. I slumped back into my seat, feeling the events of the day take a toll on me.

I had to get up early that morning to get Manny ready for his trip to Melbourne. First there was a vet check, which Manny passed with flying colours. I then brushed Manny to help keep him calm, as grooming was a part of his normal routine. Dad and I then loaded him and Nearly There into the float. Nearly There, otherwise known as Nellie, was also coming to Melbourne to gain some experience, as well to keep Manny company.

Then there was the hour drive to the airport, before a four hour wait till the plane leaving. By the time I got on the plane I was already tired. I didn’t have time to rest though, as I was checking on the horses every half hour.

When we touched down I was relieved, looking forward to the hotel bed that was waiting for me. After picking my luggage I went to unload Manny from the travel float into the float, to take him to a friend’s place. A kind friend of ours was letting Manny and Nellie stay at their stable.

“How you going boy?” I asked Manny as I walked him around the airport ground, stretching his legs. He seemed a little dozy, but then so was I!

The ride to the stable was pretty boring, as not many cars were on the road at midnight. It took a lot of effort not to fall asleep, but I promised dad that we would keep each other awake. Mum, Adam and Ben had already headed to the hotel to check in.

A gravel path greeted us at the stable. Dad followed the path down to the flash lights, which were shiny on the stable. The stable was a lot like ours, but everything look much more expensive. The owner, Brett, had spoken to us over the phone yesterday and told us to make ourselves welcome.

Once the horses were settled and had a drink, dad and I headed to the hotel.

                                                                                                ~

The hotel room was just as luxurious, if not more, than I imagined. A large king size bed sat in the middle of the room, with lamps creating a warm glow either side. There was a small desk and an arm chair next to the window, which over looked the city. As soon as I hit the pillow, I instantly feel asleep.

                                                                                                ~

A small slice of light crept through the blinds, waking me up. Looking at the clock I saw it was just after nine. Gees, I thought, I must have been more tired than I thought. My stomach grumbled in response. Not wanting to miss breakfast, I quickly got dress and headed down stairs.

A long table lined a wall, which made my stomach grumble even more. Seeing everyone at a table, I went to join them, after grabbing a piece of toast and an apple.

“Morning everyone!” I said.

“Someone is chirpy this morning!” Dad exclaimed.

“Well we’re in Melbourne and Manny’s in the Cup,” I replied. “What is there not to be happy about?”

“You got me there,” He replied.

“So what are everyone’s plans for today?” Mum asked.

“Ben and I are heading to see Manny and give him a light work out,” I answered.

“And I got offered a few horses to ride this week, so I’m going to check them out,” Adam piped in.

“Well if you need to find me, I’ll be at the shops,” Mum said.

“I guess I’ll be the bag carrier love?” Dad questioned. Mum gave him a pat on the shoulder.

“You guessed right!”

Finishing up breakfast, Ben and I headed back to my room, so I could get a few things before we left.

“You know what the best things about hotel rooms are?” Ben asked.

“What?” I replied, a little puzzled. I had picked up everything I needed and was heading to the door, but Ben was blocking the way.

“No one can get in unless you let them,” He replied, leaning closer.

I guessed what he was about to do, but I just rolled my eyes.

“Seriously Ben, we need to get going.” He kissed me on the cheek.

“We don’t even have a little bit of spare time?”

“No,” I laughed, “I really need to concentrate on Manny this week. We will have plenty of time after the Cup.” He kissed me again and this time I playfully slapped him. “Come on, we have to go.”

“Fine,” He sighed, “but you owe me.”

“How?”

“Because I’m riding Manny in the Cup.” I could tell he was getting a little bit desperate now.

“I’m sure I can get another rider if you don’t want to ride.” Two could play this game.

“No, no,” He joked, raising his hands in the air, as if he were surrendering, “I’ll do it.”

“Alright then, let’s go.”

This was the start of an amazing week!

Author's Note: Here is another chapter! Unfortunately you may have to wait 2 weeks for the next update, as I'm really busy at the moment. Also I'm still deciding whether to break the last chapter into two. When this book is finished I will do some major editing on it and maybe start a sequel. Please let me know what you would like to see in the sequel! Also what do you think of this chapter? Don't forget that the competition also ends soon. Thanks so much everyone!