Born In The Saddle - Quicksilver Stud - Book 1 (#wattys2016)

Chapter 8

I practically bounced out of bed the next morning. And I knew why - I'd made a decision. I was going to stop feeling sorry for myself over my dad and get my backside down to the stables and help Amber. Besides I could help around the stables and not have to sit on the back of a horse.

I whipped a brush through my long hair before tying it up in a high ponytail. Automatically my hand reached for my foundation until I looked into the mirror like I was looking at a stupid person.

'Are you really going to put makeup on to go and muck out?'

I thought of the gaggle of immaculately turned out pony club mothers, and their snooty daughters, and quickly replaced the lid.

Fresh start requires a fresh face I smiled. Besides I've never actually liked makeup that much as it is. It makes my face feel all heavy and clammy. I guess in London, with all my friends wearing it, it just became kind of a habit. Anyway, three of my long, 'perfect' nails already had massive chips in them, and the varnish was scuffed badly. That was all thanks to half an hours tussle with a naughty black pony. What was I gonna look like after a full day?

Maggie and Joe looked up sharply when I skipped through to the kitchen.

'You're full of beans this morning.' Commented the old man.

'Yep, well, lots to do.' I took a deep breath and then declared, 'I'm going to the stables to help Amber out.' They both hesitated for a second, as I knew they would, but then quickly smiled, looking genuinely pleased. 'Only......I haven't really got anything I can wear. If I mess up my Levi's mum will have a fit.' I looked at Maggie pleadingly. 'I don't suppose you've got anything I can borrow?'

She gave me a smile that made me suspicious. 'Are you sure you haven't got anything dear? Check the drawers beside your dresser.'

I walked back upstairs confused, but that didn't last long. I knelt next to the dresser Maggie was talking about and found three drawers full of riding gear and stuff for round the yard. I gaped as I pulled out every item. All brand new, still with the tags on.

'Your gran spent a whole months pension on buying that lot. You better show her you're grateful.' Joe said lightly from my doorway.

'Promise.' I replied.

'Good. And when you're dressed you'll find a pair of jodhpur boots in the cupboard by the door.' I leapt up from the floor, not able to control my ridiculously broad grin, and planted a huge kiss on his cheek.

'Alright, alright, that's enough of that.' He said, getting all flustered and rosy cheeked. Yorkshire folk aren't the most affectionate creatures but sometimes it can't be helped. And this was one of those times. I bounded down the stairs like the Duracell bunny and repeated my show of affection on Maggie.

I changed as quickly as I could and headed briskly down to the stables. My cousin was just walking back into the yard having taken a couple of the livery ponies out to graze.

'Hey Amber.'

'Hey. Woah, what are you wearing?' Her jaw dropped wide open as she took in my black leggings and red polo shirt.

'Stable stuff.' I shrugged and then grinned still unable to hide it.

'Does that mean...'

'I just thought I could give you a hand.'

'Brill.' She bounded forwards and bear hugged me. I guess Amber's more Kiwi than Yorkshire, so her affectionate side is far more apparent.

'I'll let dad know you're here.' She said cheerily.