Two Puzzle Pieces

Chapter Four

I was so nervous when Frank said I could ride the magnificat gelding.

Riley caught her horse, Leo and I latched a lead on Cody's halter. At first he didn't want to lead and planted his feet to the ground, refusing to move.

I stare at Riley as she walked Leo calmly down to the gate.

"Come on Cody!" I said pulling on his lead. He just pulled back his head with a glimmer in his eyes.

I smirk at him, and then stand up straight next to him. I pat his neck, untangling his mane until his nostrils stopped moving so quickly.

Then I ever so slowly started to walk to the gate and he followed. I smiled with bride, until he stepped on my foot.

I jerked back with a yelp, freaking poor Cody out as my arms fly into the air, along with the lead line.

Cody bolted in the other direction, dirt kicked up from his hooves.

I spun in a circle, while holding my foot. I didn't have steal toes.

"Chevy you Ok?" Riley asked.
I suck in a shaky breath from the pain but nod my head.

"No your not, you hurt and Cody is half away across the field." Riley stated.

"I fine really!" I argue, and just to prove it, I turn around letting go of my foot and walking back to Cody.

Riley smiled and shook her head then continued down to the barn.

I walked slowly to Cody, whispering to him. He turned his head toy voice and then started to walk toward me.

I smile and pat his nose.

"I'm sorry I scared you." I apologized. He nickered at me as if to say it Ok.

Soon I had him down at the barn and on a cross tie. Riley smiled at me and then showed me where his saddle was and bridle.

I first grab a brush and started to groom off the dirt. I untangled his mane some more and then grab the saddle pad. I threw it over his back and he flinched, moving his body away.

I pat his shoulder, "It's ok, buddy." My nerves started to get the best of me the further of finishing to tack him came.

Riley was already done and waiting for me. I envied her talent with horses.

I was almost as good for a beginner anyhow.

Cody was finally tacked and ready. His fat belly made the saddle look small on him.

"Now he hasn't been ridden in like 3 months so it might take some time before he actually listens to ya." Riley said as she brought over a stepping stool.

"I don't know, Riley, what if he starts to freaks out?" I asked, staring at the huge horse.

"Come on, don't chicken out on me now." She pushed.

I thought about it moment, and actually took to long because Riley sighed really loud.

"Ok, let's put him up."

"No!" I said, and she looked at me, confusion in her eyes.

"I'll ride him." I said and then started to climb the steps. Riley held Cody still. I held onto the horn and was ready to pull my leg over when Cody moved over. I face planted the ground and Riley chuckled from behind me.

"That was not funny." I said, groaning as I got to my feet.

"Well at least he taught you what to expect if you fall off." Riley laughed.