Page 17 of Faith for the Cowboy
Katie gave her a knowing look. “Exactly. Now, let’s find you something that makes you feel as amazing as you are, no matter where you wear it.”
As they continued browsing through the racks, Harper couldn’t help but feel a flicker of excitement for what the future might hold. Maybe, just maybe, there was something – or someone – waiting for her in Shelby Springs.
12
"Come on," Lawson encouraged Harper as they walked toward the barn.
“I’m not sure about this. It’s been a very long time since I’ve been on a horse,” Harper said.
“Well, you know what they say,” he replied with a grin.
Harper rolled her eyes, even as she smiled. “What about getting back on the horse? Isn’t that like when you’ve fallen off? I didn’t say I fell off. I just said it’s been a long time since I’ve ridden.”
Lawson shrugged. “Well, I figure it works either way. It’s been a long time for you, but I guess it’s like riding a bike. It’ll come back to you.”
Harper followed him inside the barn. As Lawson busied himself saddling the horses, Harper stood close by and watched.
"Have you always been this good with horses?" Harper asked, leaning against the stable door.
Lawson chuckled, glancing up at her. “I guess it comes from being around them since I could walk. My dad made sure we all knew how to ride early on.”
"That’s impressive. I remember my first time on a horse. I was terrified," Harper admitted.
Lawson smiled warmly. "Everyone’s nervous their first time. Even the best riders started out with shaky legs and a lot of falls. But you must have done fine to go on and compete in barrel racing.”
“I was nervous, but I fell in love with it. Plus, I’m a fast learner.”
“I’m sure you were great,” Lawson said with a wink.
A hint of a blush crept onto her cheeks, and she looked away before changing the subject. “Whose horse is this?” she asked, reaching out to gently pat the horse’s neck.
“It’s Mom’s. She’s really gentle and could use the exercise. Mom doesn’t ride as much as she’d like to anymore.”
“Oh really? I saw her ride last week.”
“Yeah, she does when she can, but when she’s busy, we help out by making sure Blaze gets some riding time. Are you ready?”
“I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.”
Lawson stepped behind Harper moving his hands to her waist as she put her foot into the stirrup and mounted the horse. He handed her the reins and made sure she was settled before walking over to Thunder and mounting his own horse. “If you stay close by, Blaze will follow. There’s nothing to worry about.”
“Okay, if you say so.”
Lawson clicked his tongue, gave Thunder a nudge, and led the way out of the barn. When they were just a little way from the barn, he looked over at her, checking to make sure she was okay. He smiled, knowing that he had been right. He had nothing to worry about. Harper remembered.
“Does it take you back?” he asked.
Harper smiled. “I guess it does. You were right, I remember this. Although I can already tell you that my muscles have forgotten, and I’m sure I will be sore tomorrow.”
Lawson laughed. “I hope it will be worth it.”
“I think it will be.” Harper flashed him a smile. “Where are you taking me?”
He shrugged. “I don’t know. I just thought we would head out and see where we end up.” Lawson heard the words escape from his mouth and wondered if he was doing the same thing in their relationship. No, he didn’t want that. Maybe it was time to tell her.
Harper spoke as if she had read his thoughts. “I feel like that’s my whole life right now. I’m just getting up every day and wondering where I will be tomorrow.”
Lawson turned his concern to her situation. “Have you heard from the insurance company about your car?”
