Backyard Horses

by Fern
(California, U.S.A.)


Chapter One - Part One

I always overheard Olivia Cummings talking with her friends about how keeping a horse in your backyard is super weird. She also said only people who couldn't afford to board, keep horses in their backyards.

"You can't show a horse that lives in your backyard." I remember her saying.

Funny thing is, I've been keeping Ginger and Teddy in my backyard for a few years now and I'm Olivia's top competition on the circuit. If only she knew, her freckled face probably would drain out all its coloring and her mouth would probably curl into a sneer. Just like she did when I won the Winter Regionals - Junior Division.

I beat her by a full ten seconds. And it's not like I couldn't afford to keep Ginger and Teddy in a stables, I just don't want to. I like being closer to them and being able to walk out into my backyard and touch Ginger's soft chestnut coat and Teddy's blue roan one.

I like going for bareback trail rides on Teddy through the streets and across people's property. I've been on all the trails on Dad's 10-acre property, but Teddy and I have explored every nook and cranny, we know all the secret spots that no one would even know was there.

We need more adventures. Teddy and I are like explorers in a fishpond. We secretly sneak out to explore the world beyond us.

I like practicing for Hunter and Jumping shows with Ginger, my prize winning mare in our arena that Dad built for me out of wooden railing. I'd have to drive 15 to 30 minutes just to see my horses if I boarded them.

Amber will find out when the time is right. After I beat her at the next show, the Spring Court Regional, would probably be the best time I imagine.

"Tess?"

"Huh?" I replied, rapidly blinking my eyes. I can't believe it. I totally zoned out. Again.

"We were just talking about after school today. You wanna come riding with us?" Maria asked, twirling her fork around the pasta she had for lunch. "Georgie and I were gonna go up near the creek on Ridge Stone."

"And probably go galloping through this meadow that I found nearby. Tess, it's so cool. And I finally got Maddy to gallop. It was SO COOLLL!!!" Georgie exclaimed. She was so enthusiastic when she spoke.

Maddy was Georgie's 15.3 light grey Arabian mare that Georgie had got as a project horse a while back. Georgie had been planning to sell her, but totally feel in love with the mare.

"Sounds cool!" I said, trying to match Georgie's level of excitement.

"Yeah! We'll meet at your house Mia? At 3:30 PM?" Georgie and I often called Maria, Mia. It was just easier and Maria didn't care what we called her anyways.

Mia nodded in response. "Sounds good. Churro and I will be outside waiting." She pushed a strand of black hair out of her face and sighed exasperatedly at her food. (Churro was Mia's dun Arabian/QH cross.) "I'm full and the bell is gonna ring soon. You guys wanna go?"

Georgie and I nodded and left with Maria. We all dumped our cafeteria food into the trash can and made our way to the exit. Olivia's table was two car lengths from the exit. I stopped at Olivia's table. My friends stopped behind me. The conversation at the table stopped and heads were turned in my direction.

"Hey Olivia," I started, my tone mockingly sweet. "I looked at the sign-up list for the Spring Court Regionals for Jumping and I didn't see your name. You're afraid of a little competition?" I gave a small smile. Things between Olivia and I were always mature and civilized. We never cussed at each other or wished each other bad luck at competitions. We probably would've been friends if things were different. But we were both happy at the way things were.

"Afraid? Of you? You beat me a few times and call that competition?" Olivia replied, with an equally mocking tone. "I just haven't gotten around to signing up yet. And you better expect a challenge. I've been leasing a new horse: Reign. He's an OTTB and can jump higher than your little mare ever will. He's awesome."

"Good for you." I said in response. "I'm so happy for you. But just because your Daddy bought you a new horse doesn't mean he's better than Ginger. She can jump higher than a meter and you know it. That's good though. I started to think I'd have no competition this season." I walked off, with Georgie and Mia at my side.

"You guys are so weird...." Georgie murmured. Mia hummed in agreement.

"Good boy Teddy.." I murmured. After school, I had raced home to give Teddy a quick ride before setting off to Mia's, to meet her and Georgie there.

I gently grasped Teddy's large head and slipped the bit into his mouth. I pulled the crown over his ears and freed his black forelock from the headstall's grasp. I quickly did up the rest of the bridle and walked Teddy over to the mounting block.

"Ginger!!" I cried out. "You be a good girl. Don't start eating that tree again, you could get a splinter." She looked up at me, with alfalfa sticking from the sides of her mouth and let out a low whinny.

I stepped up onto the mounting block and mounted Teddy's back. I love riding Teddy bareback, it's the only way I ride him. Except for when we practice for the Western or Hunt shows. He has a big broad back and with a non-pointy withers.

"Good boy Teddy." I told him, patting his flank.

I bumped his sides with my heels and and walked him to the back gate. From his back, I undid the lock and softly closed the gait behind me. I took a glance at my watch: 3:15 PM. I still had a good chunk of time to get to Mia's house.

"Come on Teddy." I gave him a good squeeze with my inner thighs and clicked. My gelding broke out into a lively trot. Teddy's shoed hooves clanked against the street as we made our way to my friends house.

Maria and Georgie were already there when I arrived. Both of them were riding bareback without a helmet, just like myself. It was 3:31 PM.

"You're late." Maria said to me. I rolled my eyes and let out a short laugh, "Sorry. Teddy's a little slow today. I woke him from a nap."

"Whatever." Georgie said with a smile.

"So...we just gonna stand around all day and talk or what?" Maria playfully asked. Georgie and I both rolled her eyes.

"No." I replied. "Lead the way."

Maria and Churro led the way to Ridge Stone, followed by Georgie and Maddy in the middle, and Teddy and I in the back. Our horses hooves clipped and clopped against the cement ground. All of us went at a steady trotting pace. The neighborhood surrounding was so familiar to all of us.

We hadn't been up to Ridge Stone in a while, but we'd all been on the other trails recently. Like Teddy and I, Georgie, Maddy, Maria and Churro were also explorers of the world. We always read about male explorers, like Christopher Columbus and such, but not many female ones.

Maybe the three of us would become famous world explorers and find new land. Maybe new land with a rare new breed of horses even? A rare breed of horse that could jump higher than 2 meters. That would be awesome.

We followed Mia and Churro up a small hill and through a small street with no sidewalk up to Ridge Stone. All three of us were quiet. We usually were when we were riding to our destination, but when we got there, now that's a different story.

We got there in a few minutes and somehow our peaceful riding in single file line and turned into a race once we hit the grass fields. Teddy and I were in the lead, of course, but Mia and Georgie weren't far behind us.

We zigzagged through the trees that past us. The trees became more and more thicker and there were more of them. I made the conscious to slow back down to a more controllable trot. My friends slowly did the same. The creek came into view. I dismounted and led Teddy to the water. I bet he was thirsty from all the running.

"Good boy." I told him. "Good boy. I love you." I threw my arms across his back and leaned on him while he stoke his face into the stream. After a while, I mounted Teddy by grabbing a handful of his black mane and swinging my legs onto his back.

The three of us walked for a while before the clearing opened up and in front of us was the most gorgeous meadow I'd ever seen.

Picture yourself like this: You're riding your horse or your most favorite horse in the world, and you are galloping through this never ending meadow that just keeps on going and going and going. And you wonder if it'll ever end. It's got tall over grown, green grass that goes past your knees.

I sat there on Teddy's back, my jaw hanging on it's hinges. I was so amazed. Wow. It was so beautiful here. I cued Teddy for a canter and he took off. I stoke to his back like glue and sat deep in my seat.

For being more of a Western horse, Teddy was fast. I was too caught up in my own business to notice what my friends were doing. I was so happy, I pushed Teddy into a gallop. We soared across the grass.

The wind soared through my hair, tangling my light brown locks. The rough breeze bit at my face, as I leaned forward, in a two point position. Teddy's mane drifted in the wind. I wanted to stay forever. My friends were having equally as much fun as I.

"Georgie!! You picked an awesome spot!!!" I yelled out.

"I know!!! Isn't it amazing?" she replied.

"YES!!!" Maria shouted out, startling Churro a little bit. Her gelding looked about ready to bolt, but he didn't. "Aww good boy Churro. I'm sorry boy. I didn't mean to scare you." Churro was still a little but green, but everyone knew that Mia trained that horse as well as a million dollar trainer could have.

All of us eventually dismounted and let our horses graze. We sat in the grass and played with each others hair, told stories and enjoyed each others company. I never wanted this day to end.

Hey guys! I hope you guys liked my story. I know it was a lil' bit boring at first, but I promise some stuff is gonna go down and its gonna be awesome! Stay groovy! XD

Next parts (Spring Court Regionals) are continued in Comments section

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Dec 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dont stop xx
by: claudiahorselovr

I love this so much! I get so excited when you write another chapter x
Dec 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		EEK!
by: Violent Brushstroke

SO MANY CHAPTERS! I don't know what to do with myself (in a good way)! I love your book! Keep going girl!
Dec 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter 14
by: fern

"This place is just wow...it's amazing." Mia gasped from behind me.

I gave her a weak smile, "It's something isn't it?" The interior of the Morningdove Stables; Christian's stable. That's the only memorable part of last night that my memory captured; the only good part of it that was remembered.

"Morningdove Stables," he'd said with a smile on his face. The boy was no doubt beyond-drunk; did he really mean what he said? Karen and Elijah Philips wanted me, of all people to be a working student for them. Wild.

"Must've been nice to show here." She said softly.

I looked back at my friend. Friend; what a funny word, used to describe something we often ended up cherished more than family.

"You'll get here eventually M; I know it." I told her, reaching for her hand.

We reached Ginger's stall.

"It's just so intimidating seeing all these 4-star horses at an A-rated show. I don't think Churro will be able to take me to something like this. These horses were bred for the show-ring and he...he-"

"You just can't get enough of being at my stables can you?" Said a familiar voice.

The two of us looked to the source of the sound and saw a handsome red-headed boy walking towards us.

I squinted my eyes, "More like, the show is over and it's time to go home." I gave him a smile. A strong smile, that hid how I was feeling on the inside.

He rolled his eyes, "You thought about our offer?" Christian leaned against one of the stalls and stared dreamingly at me, completely ignoring Maria.

I deadpanned, "You were serious?"

"Everything about that conversation last night was serious." He replied, tilting his head. He sported a white polo shirt and beige breeches, a few shades darker than his skin color.

I frowned, "You were completely wasted last night. I thought you were joking." I glanced over at Mia, who was completely lost.

"Oh Christian, this is my bestfriend, Maria Amari. This is Christian Philips; his parents own this...uh facility. The stables. Morningdove Stables." I told Mia.

She nodded and looked the boy up and down, a sly smile lined her lips. I rolled my eyes at her and turned back to Christian.

"I wasn't joking Tessa. My parents want you working for them and they won't take no for an answer." He told her. Christian flicked his chestnut hair to the side, "Plus it'd be helping me out; I have a ton of horses to ride and it's not working for my schedule. Think about it."

The boy pushed himself off the stall wall and stalked away.

"How will I contact you?" I called after him.

"You won't. I'll contact you." He replied.

I looked back at Maria and let out a sigh.

~

"Explain that to me again. He, Christian Philips, wants you, Tessa Brookes to work for Morningdove Stables as a working student." Mia said.

She sat on the wheel of my trailer as I loaded Ginger into it. I pat her flank and tied her leadrope onto the ring.

"Well, short version yes. We were both beyond wasted when he told me, it's amazing that we both remember. And his parents want me to work for him." I told her. I closed my eyes and leaned into Ginger. What am I to do?

I walked down the ramp and began closing it up.
"Mia I just...I don't know what to do." I told the other girl.

"You take it duhh..." she said, texting away on her phone.

"Oh hush...I haven't even told my dad about it." I pursed my lips. "Ok that's a lie, I actually did but I was drunk."

"Whatever. If I had an opportunity like that, I'd take it in a heartbeat. Can you take Ginger with you?" She said.

I frowned, "He said something about bringing one of my horses with me, for free. But I have two." I widened my eyes. "Teddy."
Dec 01, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		wow!
by: Violent Brushstroke

You are a very talented writer. I can't wait to read more.
Nov 29, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter 13
by: indigenous plant

Pretty Hurts - Beyonce

I stood there, wide-eyed gaping at my two friends. Georgie rushed towards me, smiles and everything. But stopped when I didn't return the happy look.

"Tess?" She frowned. Mia stepped forward, "Fam? You okay?"

I tilted my head and stumbled to the right. Georgie was at my side in an instant and caught me.

"What're you..I don't..what're you doing here?" I asked. Why were they at the hotel. Dad was making his way back to the hotel, clearly pissed.

"You texted us?" Georgie replied.

What? No I didn't. I pulled out my phone and went to messages. I can't read it; or anything. It's all blurry. "I can't reaaad it.." I slurred.

Mia pushed past Georgie and sniffed me. Why is she sniffing me? I jerked back.

"Have you been drinking?" She asked, her thick eyebrows raised high. I looked guiltily at the floor, speechless.

Mia scoffed.

Georgie snorted and let out a string of curses,

"What the heck Tessa? Not cool. What were you thinking?"

I stared harder at the ground; it's a very ugly shade of grey. I shrugged in response.

"Wait. Wait.." Georgie said, squinting at me.

"Were you with...Olivia?"

I sighed and rolled my neck on my shoulders.

"Yes?"

Georgie let out her fake laugh; the one she released when someone had angered the best deep down. "So you got drunk? At a party, with Olivia Cummings? This day just keeps getting better and better."

"It's not like that. We just-"

She cut me off, "It's not like what? Huh? Hang out with her for a day and all of a sudden, you're one of them now? Not one of the minorities like us? One of the big shots cause you're on the circuit?"

"Georgie.." Mia tried intervened.

"No Mia; I knew this was going to happen." The tan girl sneered. "I knew it, I knew it, I FREAKING KNEW IT!! She was going to leave us, to be with Olivia and Renaldo. The big shots."

By now I could feel them. They were definitely coming and I could feel them, balling up in my eyes, waiting for the perfect moment to be released. I want to go home.

"ENOUGH GEORGIA!!" Maria fumed; she ripped Georgie's shoulder to the side. "You're overreacting and you need to stop. Now. Knock it off. Everything you just said wasn't even true. Tess loves us and you know it, just because she's been hanging out with Olivia doesn't mean anything."

Both of my best-friends were radiating off heat. I stifled a sob and covered my mouth to try and cover up any sound trying to escape. I need to leave; I want to go home; I need to go home; I shouldn't never come to this show. Should've just practiced for the next one; why is everything so messed up right now?

"Fine Mia, since you're always right: fine. You can also find your own ride home tonight, cause I'm not dealing with this.." she gestured to me with disgust. "This mess, this traitorous white-trash. See you at school on Monday." She rushed over to her car, shaking her head.

I let out a sob and fell to the ground. My knees collided with the ground and everything came out. I should've stayed home, I shouldn't have come here.

Mia ran over to Georgie and ripped the car door open; everything she said was drowned out by my sobbing. "-when she needs you the most, and you just decide to blow up? How selfish can you be you obnoxious brat?" My other so-called 'friend' fired some sort of insult back, something I didn't hear, something irrelevant. "Oh yeah? She's Puerto Rican too you know?" Georgie's car started up and exited the parking lot.

Mia's heels clicked the cement ground; she kneeled in front of me and wrapped her arms around me. I want to go home...I just want to go home.

There'll be more riding soon, I promise!!! There's so much drama and I really don't even know what just happened. Oof. -fern
Nov 23, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter 12
by: Fern

First off, I'd like to say Happy Thanksgiving guys! I live in America, so today is turkey day. I'm not really sure when other countries celebrate it or if they even celebrate it at all? But anyways, happy turkey day and I hope you guys enjoy this brand new chapter!

I knew shouldn't have. I told myself that I wasn't going to, not at least until I was over 21. Did I ever mention how pretty the sky was? Like wow!?!?! Freaking gorgeous...

"Tess? Tessa?"

I tried to lift my head up, but it hurt too much. The sky is pretty.

"Oh there you are...I've been looking for you everywhere." A red-headed beauty towered over me and rolled his eyes.

"Christiannn..." I slurred with a smirk plastered on my face.

"What are you...what are you doing out here?" He swayed.

I let out a little chuckle, "I'm looking at the sky..." I lifted my arm and pointed at the spotted black blanket.

He grinned and sat down next to me on Renaldo's lawn. I shifted my attention back over to the sky and raked it with my eyes for any constellations.

"I wanted to ask you a question earlier." He said. "My parents have been looking for a working student. A paid job or something...I don't know. But they haven't found anyone, until they saw your rounds a few days ago. They asked me to look into you for it."

My eyes averted over to him. A working student position? "I don't even know you..." I said bluntly. "Or your family."

He let out a chuckle and ran a soft hand through his red waves. "Maybe you would, if I told you my last name?"

I frowned and shifted onto my side to get closer to him.

He swayed a little bit more from his position from the ground, "I never really introduced myself. The right way anyways. I'm Christian Philips. My parents own Morningdove Stables."

I gaped at him. My mouth opened in awe. His parents owned Morningdove Stables? Erm...shook?

"Your parents are Elijah and Karen Philips?" I asked him, sitting up now.

He nodded and gave me a lopsided grin, "You could even bring your horse. So what'd you say?"

~

"So what'd you think?" I asked.

"I think that your freaking drunk Tessa!!!" My dad raised his voice, "What were you thinking?"

"I dunno. Olivia handed me a drink, and I...and I thought it was fruit punch." I pouted and crossed my arms tight across my chest.

"I thought I told you to stay away from her..." He growled and tightened his grip on the steering wheel. We rolled to stop at a red light. "Where were you this afternoon by the way?"

I squinted my eyes and clamped my mouth shut. "I don't want to tell you..."

"Tessa..." my dad said softly. He revved on the gas and moved past the intersection.

"I was at the stables packing up all my stuff into the trailer and then Olivia and I got into a fight. She knocked me out and then Christian took me to his house and then I went to the party." I grumbled.

Dad rolled his eyes, "I can't hear you. Tell me when you're not intoxicated. Get out of the car and go to bed."

We pulled into the hotel. Standing in front of our room, stood a not too happy Georgie and Mia.

Happy reunion? Lol! Hope you guys enjoy this chapter, enjoy!!!
Nov 19, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Kat/Answering questions
by: claudiahorselovr

Kat! I will definitely read your story and I'll comment on it when I'm done reading it a swell! I can't wait to read it. I love a bit of good ol' romance.

The questions: I own a thoroughbred gelding 16.2 hh and I'm breaking in a chestnut mare for someone. I do xc, hunting and showjumping mostly on Uno, which is the gelding I own.
Nov 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Random!!
by: Kat

Letting you know, I'm now gonna go by Violent Brushstroke :)
Nov 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Woo hoo!
by: Kat

Yes! I love your book! You're such a good writer. Can't wait to read more!

I kinda just ride for pleasure (tho sometimes, it's not very pleasurable XD). I ride western. Don't do any shows or anything. Maybe one day!
Nov 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		who's keeping count of the chapter anymore?
by: guess who? ;))

Chapter Eleven


I saw color; I saw everything actually, to be more precise, it was normal. Like a normal day, where my eyes saw everything normally.

An angry, raven-hair girl rushed at me and then all I saw was black. I'm suspended in floating black air. All black, just like a raven-haired someone. No horses, just me, myself and I. I want to see Ginger, and Teddy. To go home to my friends, my real friends. I wonder how they're doing; do they miss me? Probably not. I haven't bothered to call, or text. Everything is my fault, everything.

A bright blob emerges from the darkness; it's silent, says nothing with it's words but speaks with it's actions. It grows bigger and bigger and suddenly it's eating me, consuming me and all the darkness is gone.

The ceiling is blank; a boring cream color, like most things in life. Hushed voices echo into the room; the living room; a living room.

My elbows move backwards so I can push myself up. A searing pain shoots up in my head as I try to lift it up off the pillow behind my head. I let out a hiss of pain and curse under my breath.

"Woahh, language Brookes, this is a Christian household."

My heart stops. Olivia? Isn't she the one that... yes she is, isn't she? I look up at her, big, brown eyes and all. I shoot her a glare and shift over my body over so that the couch blocks all sight of her. If I close my eyes, will that help too? I hear a sigh escape from her lips.

"We need to talk." She says in a soft voice.

I grunt, "No we don't." My eyes slam shut.

"Fine. We don't need to talk, but I do and I'd appreciate it if you'd listen." She replies in a gruff tone.
I'll fight her: I really will.

"You've been my competition since forever Tess; you're my only motivation to get better. And I'd like to think that you think the same, but probably not. I moved from Hunters to Jumpers, just so that I could compete against you. I don't think you understand how obsessed I am... or was with beating you. I fired my last three trainers because they were getting Reign and I nowhere. You've been on a winning streak. How..." Her voice cracked. "How have you managed to beat me, without a trainer?"

I didn’t know what to say; there was no words. I stayed quiet and ignored her.

"This is pointless.." She grumbled; I heard her get up to leave.

I sighed softly, "My dad. He’s my trainer, or was. Not so much anymore, I sort of know what I’m doing. He used to compete in 1.45 with his jumpers, but he doesn’t like jumping anymore."

Olivia was quiet. "There’s a party at the Clayson’s house tonight. Christian’s going to be there. I’ll text you the address, wear something cute," was all she said, then the room was silent.

~

"Yes, I’ll be fine Dad, relax." I said in response to my father’s remarks.

He shook his head, "Call me if you need anything?"

I stuffed my phone into my back pocket, "Yes of course." I opened the car door and stepped out into the summer’s hot air. A warm breeze continuously drifted by, even though the sun had already begun to set. I slammed the car door shut and waved my dad a goodbye.

Lil Pump’s ‘Gucci Gang’ blasted loudly from inside the house; I confidently strode up to the house.

The Clayson’s were one of the only people of color on the circuit, including myself. Jemma Clayson showed in Hunters while Renaldo prefered Jumpers; their parents both showed in Jumpers: 90cm and higher.

The cream-colored front door was open, letting any people passing by have a glance at their gorgeous home. People crowded the hallway as I stepped inside. I pulled my phone out of my pocket and checked the time: 9:00 PM. People looked me up and down as I pushed past them.

I pulled in my eyebrows and returned an equally as dirty look as I was being given. My outfit was cute, if you could call Mila Kunis at a lingerie photoshoot cute. My spaghetti strap bodysuit hugged my chest tight, with shorts that rode up higher on my thighs than I liked, dawned with a pair of black huaraches.

I ignored the stares and continued looking through the house; where the heck is Olivia? Or Christian?

"Is that Tessa Brookes?" Someone asked.

I whipped around.

"What, you traded your breeches for booty shorts? This is a first..." The boy smirked. Renaldo Clayson. His friends laughed.

I gave him a sly smile and squinted at the tall boy, "Do you have anything better to do than check me out constantly?" I tilted my head, then continued. "On the circuit and now off? You really are desperate."

He ran a hand through his brown hair, crossed his arms. "Wow... you really are conceited, aren’t you?" I pouted and stepped closer to him, "Only around boys who don’t have a chance with me."

The two other boys next to him erupted into laughter.

"Shots fired!!" Renaldo put his hands up in surrender.

I let out a loud laugh and gave him a hug, which he returned.

"How’ve you been? Haven’t seen you in awhile?" He asked, releasing me from his grasp. I shrugged in response, "I’ve been around, you know..." The music drowned out the rest of my words as the song changed and Chris Brown’s ‘Questions’ now played on the speaker. Something caught my eye from across the room. Or someone. Someones.

I turned to look at Olivia and Christian, plus a few other people in their direction. Olivia sported a black long sleeve with baby blue, distressed boyfriend jeans. She sauntered over in my direction. My attention completely focused onto her and Renaldo’s voice became white noise. She raised an eyebrow at me.

"You came?" Her scratchy tone spoke.

I shrugged, "Missed the party life I guess."

She looked my frame up and down before speaking again, "Do you want everyone at the party to see your butt?"

"I’m guessing it’s a sight you don’t mind seeing?" I replied, mocking her formally raised eyebrow. The other girl squinted at me and tilted her face.

"Who’s hotter; Tessa Brookes or Olivia Cummings?" One of Renaldo’s friends whispered loudly. Olivia whipped around as I gaped at him. That’s it I’m leaving. I’m done. Officially done, it’s all over. For him anyways... Renaldo held a large smirk on his face, "Hard decision."

"Who has worse eq?" Olivia replied, staring down the hispanic boy and his friend. "Renaldo Clayson or Owen Grizzley?" She glanced back at me.
I tapped my finger against my chin. "Not sure...the horse definitely does all the work in this situation."

"So that’s how it’s going to be?" Owen drawled, stepping closer to the girls. He was attractive and tall, with sandy blonde hair and tan skin.
"Absolutely." I replied, glaring up at him.

I felt a soft tugging on my arm and turned to find Olivia’s hand grasping it. "Wanna dance?" She asked, a mischievous glaze frosting over her brown eyes.

Should I? Not even twelve hours ago she’d knocked me out cold, and now she wanted to dance? With me of all people? I stared her down, the glint in her eyes never leaving once. "How could I ever turn down that offer?"

Lolol guess who's back??? This chick is!! Hope you guys enjoy this chapter :)) Don't worry there will be more riding and OF COURSE more drama soon.

QOTD: What discipline do you guys do?
AOTD: I do... honestly I don't really know. I do hunters u/s and this summer I just started jumping so I guess I'm a hunter?
Nov 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		She is!
by: Kat

She's bucked me off before. So I'd say that's a handful! :D Plus, she's as stubborn as a mule! But she's pretty! XD
Nov 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		@Kat
by: Fern

BAHAHA she sounds a little bit like a handful!! But I feel like the spicier the horse, the better. Who doesn't like a little challenge? ;)
Nov 07, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sounds fun!
by: Kat

My horse is a reddish-brown paint. She's 15.2 hh. and around 11yrs. If I try to do anything productive with her (like riding) she's a huge butt, but if I'm just hanging out with her, she's a sweetheart. Her name is Cloud.
Nov 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I LOVE YOU ALL SM
by: Fern

YOU GUYS AHHHH! Every single comment that you guys comment literally makes my day!! I love you all so much!!

I'm working on a new chapter rn and my computer's firewall expired so it's prone to viruses and I don't want to risk someone hacking into my email (I write on google docs btw) so I'll hopefully have it up sometime in the passing weeks.

Anyways love you all!! You guys are amazing!! Also, I want to get to know you guys better so I'm going to do a Question every post!! I'd love to hear from you guys!!

QOTD: what breed/height/color/age is the current horse you're riding right now? If you're not currently riding, what's your dream horse?
AOTD: I ride an *ugly little 14h morgan named stormy :))
Nov 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To claudiahorselovr
by: Kat

Claudia! You should check out my book! Please? It's got a little bit of romance. I just updated it. It's called America. I would really appreciate it if you did! Thx!
Nov 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I love this so much
by: claudiahorselovr

I absolutely love this story! Please don't stop writing it!
Oct 25, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aww
by: Kat

You're not a terrible person (I know you're joking)! I didn't update my book for a couple months! Guess that makes me an even more terrible person!

I thought it was really good how you put it in Olivia's perspective! Can't wait to hear more!
Oct 20, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Ten
by: fern

Sorry for not updating, I am a terrible person. But I have a surprise for you guys. This chapter is not going to be in Tessa's p.o.v. Guess who??? I'll tell you at the end of the chapter if you haven't guessed by then...

Havana by: Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug

She lays there. Doing nothing in the gravel, nothing but lies there. My stomach ties itself in knots as the girl just lies still. She lies on her stomach, with her hair hiding her face. Her legs are crumpled up underneath her, while her arms sprawl out across the floor.

"What did you just do?" The red-headed boy asked, his face wearing a mask of disbelief. He crouches down to the unconscious brunette girl and rolls her over onto her back.

My jaw tightens as James lets out a low whistle. "Both y'all are crazy..." he says in a low voice.
I would respond, but there's nothing to be said. What did I just do? My gaze drops down to my shaking hands. Stop. I need to stop. Tessa Brookes is fake, gap-toothed hamburger, extra bun and no patty. Veggie a la mode, that deserved what she got.

I shrugged, immediately tossing on my fake facade. It washed over my body like a cold shower.

"Whatever, it's not like she didn't deserve what she got." I rolled my eyes, desperately trying to cover up the fact that I was bluffing. My heart is about to beat out of my chest and fly far, far away. My palms are sweaty and the pounding in my head is making it hard to think.

Everything is spinning. This girl, oh this terrible, terrible, yet amazing girl... will she be okay? What have I done?

"She'll be fine." I told Christian. He was already walking away at a fast pace with her in his arms. I took a long glance at them, wishing that I could be walking alongside Christian, helping carry the brunette girl.

"I believe I have to pack for the trip home." I told James when I turned around to face him. He stood a good distance away.

He let out an uncomfortable snort, "And I believe this is my cue to leave."

A large frown grew on my forehead as I stopped in my tracks. "What? Why?" I asked the dark-skinned boy.

He squinted his black eyes at me, "I don't associate myself with people like you." His eyes looked my frame up and down before he turned to leave.

My pulse was beating through the roof. Excuse me? My perfectly-shaped nails found their way digging crescents into my palms. 'People like you.' He said. He really just said that, didn't he?

"You know what?" I retorted, grabbing ahold of his wrist. "Tessa was right. You truly are a spoiled-idiotic-mindless..." He let out a whimper as I dug my nails into his wrist. "Dull foster kid." I let go, a fire blazing in my eyes. I whipped around, and stormed off towards the stables.

"You're going in the wrong direction..." I told myself. Stopping in my tracks, I took a deep breath before turning around and sprinting after the red-headed boy and the limp girl in his arms.

So it's a lil bit short and definitely different from all the other chapters, but hey, I wanted to do something different. <3 hope you guys enjoy. Love you all!
Oct 12, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		@Claudiahorselovr
by: Kat

Thank you so much! I really do love your book! But you do sound really busy, so I understand if you can't write more.

But please try!
Oct 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Kat
by: claudiahorselovr

Yes, I'm the one :) And sure I'll start writing it again if you'd like.

I didn't get too much feedback on it so I decided to stop, but since someone seemed to have enjoyed it, I'll start it up again.

I've just been really busy with friends and family and my boyfriend, and my job at the stables and my horse and competing, lol. But I promise I'll try to write a chapter a week.

Thank you so much for telling me you enjoyed it. And yeah same, I love a bit of romance. I'm very romantic.

To Fern...

I love the new character Christian so much. And James and Olivia are so annoying, OMG. But a weird part of me thinks Tessa could fix James. I know, I know I'm crazy 😂

Keep it up!
Oct 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Awesome!!!
by: Hoofbeats

The comment title says it all for me! I LOVE your updates so PLEASE keep 'em coming! LOL
Oct 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SOOO GOOODDD!
by: Kat

This is soooooo good! You're an AMAZING writer!
Is there gonna be some romance between Tessa and Christian? I think he's a great addition. So can't wait for the next part! Write soon!
Oct 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Nine
by: Fern

Once there was a girl; a girl with 2 horses living in her backyard and a frenemy in the show ring. Then there was a mistake, a small slip up and that frenemy turned into full on enemy. That girl is me and now Olivia hates me.

My original intention was to use this against her, to hurt her, badly, after I won this series. At least I succeeded in doing one of those things.

My tack trunk scrapped the bottom of barn isle's flooring as I dragged it out to my trailer. The Spring Court Regionals was a chapter in my life that was now closing, until next year at least.

As far as I'm concerned I may never want to come back to this place. I feel hollow inside, like a dead tree; like a wilting plant that hasn't been watered in ages.

The scenery changed as I stepped outside of the barn and into the cold air. I hauled (or attempted to haul) the black tack trunk inside the trailer, slightly straining my muscles. I let a string of curses fly out of my mouth as the tack trunk dropped on my foot.

"You kiss your mother with that mouth?" A voice said.

I whirled around, expecting to find Olivia or James. Nope. In front of me stood a god. His chestnut locks cascaded in soft ringlets across his forehead, brushing into soft his grey eyes. His jawline was probably sharpened by a pencil sharpener or a machete, something sharp, anything sharp. I covered up my shock with a casual laugh,

"Absolutely not..."

He wore tight light beige breeches that hugged his calves perfectly and a navy blue polo shirt tucked into his breeches with a belt looped tight. Yummy.

He let out a laugh, a holy sound of God's angels descended down from Heaven. My knees felt as if they were going to give out at any moment.

"Someone's dirty-minded." He replied, a small smile playing at his lips.

"Only as dirty as your breeches," I replied innocently. Not a speck of dirt was to be seen on the boy's riding pants.

He squinted and shook his head in a playful fashion. "You're Tessa Brookes right?" he asked.
Feels like deja vu.

"I suppose I am. I'm not sure though." I tapped my chin, acting as though I were thinking.

He rolled his eyes, "I'm Christian. I saw your round earlier, that was a pretty rough jump-off."

I blew air out of mouth, "Oh gosh, don't remind me. I'm surprised we even placed in Top 3."

"You stayed on though." He mused, looking me up and down.

Please, please don't blush Tess. Please. I shrugged, "No biggie."

"Have you ever thought of competing as a job? Like showing client horses and sale horses?"

Was he offering me a job? No, stop. Don't get your hopes up. "Well I've thought about it once or twice, but I never really thought of it as a realistic job." I replied, rubbing the back of my neck.

"Really? I have a few cli-" He was cut off.

"So I see you've met Tessa, Christian?" Drawled a tone.

Oh, someone please help me.

"Yeah, she's pretty cool." He told Olivia. I had a hard time withdrawing from blushing.

She snorted and looked to James, who stood at her shoulder. They both looked like they were trying not to laugh.

"Sure. Just be careful with her. You know snakes? You never know when they're about to bite." James told the red-head.

Christian stared blankly at James, "Oh yeah, I sure do. I'm staring at two right now."

Olivia and James' smirks fell.

I will marry this man, whoever he is. A smirk played on my lips as Olivia's hard eyes bored through me.

"Can I help you with something?" I asked her, returning the glare.

"You can't actually. We were just leaving anyway." A fake smile was painted on her thick lips.

Sure you were. "The exit's over there." I snarkily remarked, pointing at the iron gates of the Equestrian Center.

"I'm not blind.." She hissed.

I clenched my fists, "You say that but you can't tell the difference between a fake friendship and a real one."

Something flashed in her eyes. Sadness? Anger? Whatever it was, disappeared and was replaced with her regular cold stare. "Well look who's talking. You so desperately tried to be my friend," she paused. "And look how that turned out." She snarled the last part out.

"Beautiful. It turned out beautiful, because now I have an amazing best friend, which means when you mess with her, you mess with me. Back off Tessa." James remarked.

"Shut up James," I screeched. He flinched.

Christian stood still watching the situation escalate.

"I'm not talking to you." I told him.

"Relax..." Christian told me, placing a delicate hand on my shoulder.

All due respect to my future husband, but I'd just met him. This is not how it's supposed to go. I ripped my shoulder out from his grasp.

"You're so quiet now." I taunted her, stepping up to her. "Always having something to say, just like your little sidekick over here. Oh my gosh!! I just made a connection. You guys both like to talk, y'all are both filthy rich and I've managed to beat both of you more than twice." I made no comment on the fact she beat me in the last class.

"What's it like to have money? I mean it can take you places but not if you have the talent. You're just wasting thousands of dollars down the drain, if you truly can't ride."

Olivia was a bright shade of red. Her fists were clenched tight to her sides.

"What?" I said, "Say something."

"You need to stop." Christian told me.

I ignored him, "Say something." I repeated. Woah, I am having major flashbacks right now. She said nothing. I let out a cruel laugh and rolled my eyes.

"Right. When you're actually faced against me, by yourself, you have nothing to say. Nothing." Maybe I was taking this too far? Was I? Whatever, it doesn't matter.

Olivia opened her mouth but nothing came out. She blew hot air out of her nose and stormed off. I called her a crude name as she stalked off. I turned back to Christian.

He looked at me with wide eyes, "Savage much?"

I looked at him, speechless. I had nothing to say. Nothing. I was done talking.

"TESSA WATCH OUT!!!" Christian yelped.
I turned to look over my shoulder to see, Olivia rushing at me. Before I could react, she grabbed a chunk of my ponytail and then all I saw was black.

Ummm? What actually just happened? Thoughts on Christian? or what he was going to say to Tessa before Olivia and James showed up? Thoughts on Tessa's (now third) anger outbreak? Thoughts on Olivia and James? I personally dislike James, why did I create him? Who even is he???? But hey, you get jacked when you talk smack. Hope you guys enjoy this chapter, sorry there's no riding here. IDK when there will be, but we shall see what is next to come. Ok byyee!
Oct 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		@Claudiahorselovr
by: Kat

Claudia, are you the one who wrote Aurora the Appaloosa? If so, could you please write more? I really like a little romance and your story had that.
Oct 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yesss 2 chapters
by: claudiahorselovr

Please put up 2 chapters if you have time! and I hope you think about my idea, I would love it. Thanks so much! And I think a little aisle showdown would be perfeeeect.
Oct 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Agreed, 100%!
by: Hoofbeats

Please don't stop writing this book until you're finished with it. It's so entertaining and every time I see it in the "Recent Articles" my heart gives an excited beat and I just have to always read your updates!

You should become an author. Correction: You MUST become an author because I want to see your AWESOME books in print! (No Pressure!!! LOL)
Oct 05, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		wowza
by: Fern

You guys have no idea how much you make my day! Honestly, I can't believe that you actually like my story! Don't worry there will be some major plot twists per usual...

James and Tessa? That's an interesting couple ;) I was thinking more of Tessa and Olivia? But we shall see... Mwhahahahahhaa

I'm thinking another major showdown in the barn isle per usual? IDK, we'll see!

I should have another chapter up this week (maybe two if I have time). Again, love you guys so much and thanks so much for reading my story. I love you all SOOOOOO MUCH!
love,
fern
Oct 04, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My fav story on this website
by: claudiahorselovr

I really hope she and James kiss or something, lol. You all know me I love some good romance especially unexpected with a boy like James. I love this story so much and I so agree with one of the other commenters it's like you're a real author. You're so talented. Please make something happen between James and Tessa cause I think they would be a good couple since they compete against each other, it would keep things interesting. Again this is like a real book, please don't stop writing.
Oct 04, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So, So, So, So, Amazing!!
by: HorseLife

Your story is the best! Seriously, it sounds like a real book that a experienced author wrote. You should really consider being a author yourself when your older! The plots amazing and your not going into so much detail that the story gets boring, which is really hard to do!

YOU ROCK!
Sep 29, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		KEEP GOING!
by: Kat

I thought Olivia was good! Now I just want to smack her upside the head. Or maybe "accidentally" give her a black eye. ;)

Can't wait to read more! Update soon!
Sep 27, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter 8
by: Fern

(Guess who's back, mwahahahahah!! Also, a side note: you guys should definitely listen to: New Rules by: Dua Lipa while reading this.)

Second place; with Reserve Champion. We posed for pictures, held trophies, faked smilies in front of the crowd and talked to people I'd never even seen before. There were so many people, but none of them where Olivia.

Olivia Cummings: the raven haired girl; Olivia Cummings: my rival in the show ring; Olivia Cummings: the girl who tried.

I inclined my head to look up at the ceiling of the stables and slumped my body against Ginger's black tack trunk. Not the most comfortable of things, but not bad. My ear buds blasted music into my ears. A few people lingered in the barn isle, not as busy and bustling as it was a few hours earlier.

"Is it just me? Or am I having deja vu?" Drawled a familiar tone. I pretended not to hear and turned the volume up on the phone. I shifted my Hunt Club ball cap lower over my vision to block all signs of him.

"Tessa, don't be a jerk. I'm only here to congratulate you on your win. Reserve Champ?" He continued, raising his voice. "It's a bummer that I couldn't compete against you; Well for you anyway, no way you would've gotten Reserve Champ. But hey, are you competing at the Summer Court Regionals? I'll have a new horse by then."

The blonde girl crept up behind him, "Why are you wasting your time on her?"

My eyes shot over to Carrie Underwood. "Why are you wasting your time on a wannabe equestrian?" I retorted, louder than I meant to.

They both scoffed.

"Excuse me?" James replied.

"What did she just say?" The blonde said.

I paused my music, "I think you heard me. But if you didn't you can always use James' parents to buy you a pair of hearing aids."

Her eyes widened with shock.

"Don't talk to her like that." James retorted, his eyes hard underneath his Red Sox cap.

I let out a cruel laugh, "What are you gonna do? Tell your mommy on me?"

"No," said a new voice. "But I'm sure I can come up with a good excuse to get you disqualified from competing from Regionals for the next four years."

I pushed myself off the tack locker and charged at Olivia. "You wouldn't.." I growled.

"Try me snake." She retorted, returning my glare.

Her emotionless brown eyes were narrowed into slits. A doll-like smirk played on her lips.
I clenched my fists tight and dug my nails deep into my palms, creating little crescents in my skin. I cursed at her and stared her dead in the eyes. We were inches away from our noses touching.
Steam practically poured out of my ears as our stare down increased deeply.

"What?" She said. "Push me; attack me, just like you did to James. Touch or talk to one of us again, see what happens." She smirked and roughly shoved my shoulder with hers as she passed me.

"Let's go guys.." I heard to laugh to the other two.

I clenched and unclenched my fists. This day keeps getting better and better, doesn't it?
Sep 27, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Can't wait for next chapter!!
by: Kat/Hoofprints in the Clouds

Please update soon! You have me on the edge of my seat. What's wrong with Olivia? Tessa didn't even do anything wrong! Also, what happened to Maria and Georgie? Are they coming back into the story soon?
Sep 26, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Omg my fav story on this website
by: claudiahorselovr

This is so my kind of story. And the funny thing is, I have a relationship with a boy exactly like this and his name is James and he's a foster kid. He's definitely not as bad as this boy though, lol. Please carry on this story. You are such an amazing writer, this is just amazing.
Sep 24, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Another chapter please!
by: Hoofbeats

So good Fern!
Sep 24, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter 7
by: Fern

Chapter Seven


"And that's Tessa Brookes on her mare, Gingersnaps_1.0 with a time of 34.5 seconds. That puts her in second place behind Olivia Cummings." The announcer spoke.

Second place isn't bad; but it's not first place. There was one more entry after me, so who knew if that'd even be my placings for this round.

I glanced down at Ginger's neck and gave her a large pat on the neck. Her coat was slick was sweat and warm to the touch. "Good girly.." I cooed. Whatever our placings where to be, I'd be proud of her, of us.

"Gave me quite a scare there Brooks, thought you were going to fall for sure."

"Trust me, I thought I'd be brushing turf out of my teeth right now." I told Olivia.

She rolled her eyes, a small smile playing on her lips. "Hey Tessa?"

"Mhmm?" I replied, holding onto the buckle of Ginger's reins. I gave her a light squeeze. "Walk with me? I need to walk her out."

Olivia nodded and gave her gelding a cue to walk alongside us. "So... I've been looking around at other stables in the arena, and I've come to find that you don't ride at any of them."

I looked at her trying to keep my vomit in my mouth. "Wow, stalker much. I didn't know you were so obsessed with me Cummings." I knew what she was going to ask, but how would she react when I told her?

"Oh shut up. But you never have a trainer. The announcer never announces your name with what stables you ride with, ever. What's so funny?" She continued, now smiling. Teeth and all.

I shook my head, "Nothing. Go on."

She playfully glared at me, "I guess what I'm asking is, where do you ride? And who's your trainer?"

I shrugged.

She groaned, "Brookes, I will murder your ass, God so help you if you don't tell me."

I pursed my lips, debating telling her. As much as I didn't want to admit it, I guess I owed her that much with how she's stuck by my side the past few days.

"I don't ride at a stables I um.. board them at my house. We built a pipe corral in our backyard." I paused. "And I uh.. don't actually have a trainer."

Olivia's face went slack, with her mouth hanging open.

"Close your mouth before you catch a fly." I teased her, trying to break the awkwardness.

She stayed silent and stared at her saddle. She finally shook her head and let out a cruel laugh. Her eyes were narrowed when she finally looked up at me, "You must think I'm stupid. Paying all that money for a trainer, and look where it's got me. I barely beat you every time."

I frowned, "No, of course n-"

"I'm so stupid..." she murmured, "This whole time you looked down on me, haven't you? I've switched barns twice to find a better trainer so I could beat everyone. To beat you." She hissed. Her eyes grew red and had tears bubbling at the surface.

No. I shook my head, "No of course not. No, please don't say that. You're amazing, and you beat me Olivia. You beat me in the round. Did you not hear the announcer?" I pleaded with her.

"Screw you; I only beat you and everyone else by a few seconds." She sneered. Olivia grabbed her reins and jerked her horse's head to the right.

I reached out, "Olivia, stop. Wait."
She kicked her horse furiously and took off, leaving a trail of dust behind her.

What did I just do?
Sep 18, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		BTW
by: Hoofprints in the Clouds

I forgot to say that my book says it's by Kat. That's me, I had just decided to do a dif name.
Sep 18, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		No probs!
by: Hoofprints in the Clouds

Your writing is really good. can't wait for the next chapter!

Would you be willing to check out my story? It's called America.

Tell me what you think! thx
Sep 17, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		@Hoofprints in The Clouds
by: Fer

awww tysm!! I really appreciate it!!!

(BTW the latest chapter was chapter 6 not 5 lol sorry)
Sep 16, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		yay!
by: Hoofprints in the Clouds

So glad you updated!

Please keep writing, it's really good
Sep 14, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Six
by: Fern

(Guess who's baaaack?)

Chapter Six


I limply sat on Ginger's back; not minding my posture at all. If I had a trainer they'd totally kill me right now. Good thing I don't have one.

"Brookes, sit up. You look like you got shot in the back or something." Olivia drawled. She and her stunning black gelding along side us.

I glanced at her then back at the road ahead of us. Our round was coming up soon; we'd just finished warming up. Just as the vet said, my girl was back to her normal energetic self. Her ears continuously swiveled back and forth, paying attention to everything around us.

"What time are you going on?" She asked, curiously.

I shrugged, sitting up straighter. "Not sure. Around 9 I think. I'm pretty sure I'm the third or fourth person up. You?"

"I'm second to last." She replied, holding onto her reins by the buckle.

I nodded in reply. We walked through a bustling crowd of people. A few stood in the walkway. I furrowed my brow; don't get angry. Relax.

"Excuse me guys," I said exhaustedly, pulling back gently on the reins. "Can you move out of the walkway?"

Most of them moved.

"What? Are you gonna attack me if I don't move?" Said a random girl.

I narrowed my eyes. What? "No. I'll run you over." I retorted. "Move."

The girl whispered loudly to her friend, "I heard she attacked James Kentington last night at the stables. What a psycho!"

"I heard he's such a nice guy; why would she do that?" Her brunette friend replied.

I let out a loud snort and Olivia gave an annoyed laugh. "Girls, the day James Kentington is a nice person, is the day that pigs can fly." She told them, an annoyed smile playing at her lips. "And I think my friend here told you guys to move. Scat." Olivia made a little hand motion to make them move. The two girls left as I smiled at her.

I guess it was nice to have a friend that's equally a savage as yourself.

Before I knew it, we were stepping into the arena. The riders before us were fast, maybe even a little bit too fast. Whatever; we can beat them. No biggie.

I could feel Ginger's energy radiating underneath me; her strides are long and so ground-covering. Gosh I love this horse. I saw the clock as we walked into the arena. I asked Ginger to trot and she picked up the canter. Her canter turned into a full blown gallop.

I let out a loud laugh as we galloped past the clock and toward the first jump. A brightly colored oxer; Ginger held her head in the air as we approached the jump. She sped up underneath me as we took off over the oxer.

I two-pointed and clutched my knees tightly against the saddle. Her hooves made contact with the ground and we were off again. The arena's seats were packed and dead quiet.

I dug my right leg into Ginger's side to make a sharp turn to the next jump. It was a line. In and out. We soared over the first one, no problem. My mare let out a big buck after the first jump, which was unexpected. I fell forward in the saddle onto her neck. I let out a large curse as we quickly approached the second one.

No, no no. I held onto her short mane and clamped my knees to her shoulders, desperately trying to stay on. Ginger went over the second jump; her head was now level with mine with the added elevation.

Oh my gosh. I'm going to fall. My stomach dropped. She landed the jump and my whole body flinched. I fell farther onto her neck again, and desperately tried to push myself up again. Ginger held her head high in the air, preventing me from falling.

On any other round I would've hated her giraffe neck, but if it wasn't her now I'd be eating turf. I finally settled myself into the saddle, and thanked my gorgeous chestnut mare. I let out a large sigh and moved my hips in sync with her extended gallop.

I half-seated to her gait as we made are way around to the next jump. The liverpool. I really, really hope she'd go over this time. Back home she'd rear every single time I even tried to get her to go over a small stream.

I grimaced at the thought of losing time for the round. I need this; I need to win. Her effortless, long strides quickly took us to the jump. "Come on girl," I told her. "Come on, Ginger."

Her orange ears were perked straight up into the air as she tossed her head up, like a little giraffe. One, two, three, four. And we're off. She never even second-guessed it. I two-pointed with my heels down facing the earth.

Just like all the other jumps, we'd taken off like a rocket ship to another planet. But the trip hadn't been long enough.

Skeet; what did you guys think of that? I'm trying to think of setting up a regular updating day. Hope you guys enjoyed that and ye, ye, ttyl.
Sep 11, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		really good
by: Slorider

I really like your story! Keep writing!
Sep 11, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Awesome!
by: Hoofbeats

Awesome as always! Please continue to write!
Sep 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Five
by: Fern

Mother Nature decided to be bipolar the day of the show and drastically stormed on the arena grounds, soaking the arena's footing and jumps. Their inside arenas where being renovated by a trick-riding group, so that was out of the question.

I huffed and zipped down the zipper on my Ariat long-sleeve shirt. I sauntered over from my seat on Ginger's back tack box over to my chestnut mare's stall.

Letting out a small sigh, I leaned my head against my mare's forehead. Her breath felt warm against my chest.

"Hi girly.." I murmured, rubbing the side of her cheeks. "At least one good thing came out of this; we don't have to show today." I told her.

The vet came by earlier to check out Ginger out; he'd come to the conclusion that my mare was overly dehydrated and had a lot of salt in her system. He'd recommended keeping her water full and not exercising her for the rest of the day.

"She'll be back to normal in the morning," he'd said.

I breathed in my mare's scent and exhaled deeply. The aroma of horses calmed me.

"Tessa..." drawled a familiar tone. I immediately straightened my back and rolled my eyes.

I whipped around and but my fake facade back on my face, "James..." I let a small, daring smile crawl onto my lips. "What're you doing here? I thought you weren't competing, especially with.." I didn't need to continue. I looked him up and down and settled on lifting my chin higher in the air. A blonde girl, equally my height with piercing blue eyes stood at James' shoulder.

James' tongue poked through the side of his mouth, hiding an insult. "You know- never mind. This is my-" he started.

"No." I said, cutting him off. "Say it."

His Red Sox cap shielded his eyes, but I could see them narrow into slits from underneath his cap.

"Excuse me?" The girl spoke, before James could get a word in.

Yay, making more friends on the showjumping circuit. My favorite.

"Oh I think you heard me." I replied cooly. I clenched and unclenched my fists, trying to remain calm. I turned back to James', "You have the audacity to put salt in my horse's feed and water just because I beat you last night. You can't stand up to little ol' me in real life, so you hurt the one thing in life that actually matters to me." I stepped closer to him. "And then you have Reese Witherspoon over here to try and defend you because you can't speak for yourself? Pathetic." I let out a small fake laugh.

James' clenched his jaw and held his camera in his hands tighter. Silence.

"Well?" My voice, taking another step closer. My anger was unimaginable; I can't function. "SAY IT!!!" I screamed. People in the aisle were looking now; a few were whispering.

"Chill out." James hissed.

The blonde girl gripped James' arm, "She's crazy. Let's just go."

"SAY IT!! YOU ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, SO SAY IT." I roared, "YOU DRUGGED MY HORSE!!" I pushed him. Hard. The boy stumbled backwards.

"Brookes, you must be on drugs or something. What's wrong with you?" He sneered.

Without thinking I lunged at him, but was immediately pulled backwards by a strong force.

"Hey, hey, hey...calm down." The person had a strong grip on my arm. Olivia.

"Leave. Now. Or I'll make you." She sneered at James and his friend. She looked at me, her eyes full of concern. She dragged me away from my horse's stall, without protest from me.

People looked at me as we passed. I could punch the wall right now; How dare he even try to talk to me after pulling a stunt like that. My heart beat fast, beating through my chest.

We walked past the big barn doors, that led to the rain. I was on auto-pilot.

Olivia let go of my arm as if it was hot metal, "What's wrong with you Brookes? Do you want the reputation of being crazy? Unreasonable? Psycho?" She crossed her arms and looked at me with big eyes.

"I don't need you to yell at me Cummings." I retorted. "I don't need this right now." I pinched the skin between my eyes on my nose. The rain immediately matted down both of our hair.

"I don't need this right now."

"Shut up Tess. I saw when he walked up to you. He was going to introduce you to his sister and then you went off on him." She mocked me. Her eyes softened as the rain began to pour harder around us. "What's wrong with you? Seriously, what's wrong?" Her tone was softer now, like a comforting hug around my harsh self.

The rain drops fell lightly on me. I could feel them seeping through my Ariat show shirt.

Sighing softly, "I don't... I don't know..." I said softly. Nothing bad had been happening. I'm fine, aren't I? I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes, they were hot and began blurring my vision.

I averted my eyes to the ground, the water was pooling around my paddock boots.


"I don't know." I choked out.

I could see Olivia's shadow move towards me. She probably thought I was weak. Gosh I can't believe I'm crying in front of Olivia, of all people. Her arms embraced me in a hug and pulled me in tight towards her.

I hiccuped as tears ran down my face and eventually blended into the rain. What's wrong with me? I guess I have been a little mean. Why am I acting like this?

That's all for now. Sorry for a late chapter, this one's a little long and doesn't include much riding but that's k. There will be plenty in the next one. Ok, byeee!
Aug 28, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Keep it up!
by: Hoofprints in the Clouds

Well, you said to tell you what we think, so here I am! Telling you what I think! It's so good! PLEASE keep writing. I'm a regular now, since I found your book.
Aug 28, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Please write more!
by: hoofbeats

Thanks so much for the update! Please write more!
Aug 27, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Four
by: Fern

Who did he think he was? George Morris? Honey not even close. They don't judge in equitation in Jumpers, but someone like George Morris would be horrified if they saw James' heels.

I kicked a pebble in the barn isle and scoffed loudly.

"Tess? You should start warming up soon. You're rounds in an hour." My dad said.

I glanced up at him and nodded. I glanced at my phone, 10:00 AM, before handing it to my father.

My incident with James' occurred with more than 6 hours ago, although I was still infuriated. How could he even say something like that about Ginger? And get rid of his horse? I shook my head roughly and went to fetch Ginger. My chestnut mare stared at the wall and flicked her ears toward the sound of my Parlanti's hitting the cement flooring.

She looked over at me and flattened her long ears against her head. I glared at her. Moody mares.

I walked into her stall and took the reins off of her long neck. She was fully tacked and ready to go. My brown Wintec 500 sat on her back with a burgundy all purpose pad and a white half pad underneath.

I looked down at my outfit; a burgundy pair of breeches stuck to my legs paired with a white long sleeve Ariat polo. I left the zipper in the front down lower than usual, just for kicks.

Ginger extended her legs out from behind her and peed. I rolled my eyes and waited until she was done.

I led my mare outside to the mounting block and quickly mounted her. I swung my leg over the saddle and quickly found the stirrup. I gently squeezed her sides, asking her to go forward. I left the reins hang limp on her neck as I put my hair up in a pony tail. It was in that moment that I realized that I had forgotten my helmet.

Whatever, I didn't need it in the warm up arena. Maybe I'd just flat her in the warm up ring. Yeah, that sounded about right.

People looked at me strangely as I made my way to the ring. I gathered my reins off her neck as we walked into the ring. Olivia was at the far end, cantering her horse along the rail.

We walked three laps around the ring before we picked up a trot. Ginger wasn't into it; she barely picked her feet off the ground. I frowned and kicked her with both legs. She sped up but was panting before we finished the lap. Something was up.

More people and their horses gathered in the warm up ring. I asked her for a canter; unlike usual, it took her a while to pick it up. She took a few trotting strides before she picked it up. I cursed loudly under my breath.

"Ginger..." I growled, after she picked it up. She sat deeply to her canter and pushed my heels down into the depths of my irons. She felt tired; her usual energetic, extended canter was now replaced by a slow rocky horse canter. I cursed again.

What was I riding, Teddy? I shook my head, and kept her in canter when she tried to slow down for the third time.

"Hey Brookes!! Where's your helmet?" Olivia called out.

I glared up at her, "I don't want one." I yelled back. This wasn't fair, for me to be upset with her. I wasn't mad at her but I'd never tell her that. I half-setted to Ginger's canter. Hopefully by leaning forward she'd be inclined to go faster.

Nope.

A frown grew on my forehead as a familiar figure came into view. I barely refrained from letting a string line of curses out of my mouth. I glared at James as we cantered past him.

I pulled Ginger back down to a canter; what was going to be the point of competing today if my mare's heart in it? Is this a medical problem? I pondered, there's a vet onsite. I walked Ginger out on a lose rein, letting her cool out before our round. I want to get her vet checked before the show.

Someone trotted up next to me, "Brookes, what's wrong with your mare? She's like totally out of it." Olivia asked, clearly concerned.

I shrugged, "I can't answer your question to be honest. Something's up though. She doesn't feel right."

Ginger stopped underneath me and extended her back legs. I shook my head and stood up in my stirrups to get the pressure off her back, as she went to the bathroom.

"This is her second time going this morning." I told Olivia. "I'm kind of worried about her."

"This morning?" Olivia asked, her black gelding was stopped next to Ginger. "Tess, you might want to have her vet-checked. Did she have water in her bucket this morning?"

I pondered at her question, before finally answering, "No." I finally answered. "It was completely empty, so I refilled it." I repeated my earlier actions out loud.

Ginger finished peeing so we continued to walk our horses out.

"Ah Tessa. Nice to see you again." said a voice.

I tightened my grip on Ginger's reins and ignored the person.

"So that's how it's going to be?" James continued. He walked along the fence, next to us. A Red Sox baseball cap shielding his face, which was good because I wanted to punch him, badly.

"She obviously doesn't want to talk to you James, go away. I'll call security if you keep harassing her." Olivia warned him. Her nose scrunched up like it did when she was mad.

"You're not the only one around here that has a lot of money and connections, Olivia. I'd watch your mouth if I were you." He snapped.

That's it. I pulled back harshly on Ginger's mouth and turned to face him. I put on a nasty fake smile and sucked on the inner corner of my cheek, before speaking.

"Where are your parents?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Y'all are being so salty this morning. It's like someone put too much salt on your fries. Is there something you need to get off your chest?" He put his hands on his hips and looked up at the two girls. He put so much emphasize in the word, salty.

My eyes widened. "What did you say?" I asked. The rays from the sun bored into my eyes, but I didn't care. This was not a time for squinting. Salt. That's it.

"I think you heard me Brookes." he replied.

I turned to Olivia, completely ignoring him. "Salt. That's it. Someone must've put salt in her feed. When a horse has too much salt, they get dehydrated and pee a lot."

"I wonder who would do such a thing." She replied sarcastically, tapping her chin with a gloved finger.

"Me too." I replied, slowing my head to glare at James. Oh boy, when I got done with him, he'd wish he was dead.

So... there's not much riding in this chapter and I considered re-writing it with another plot but just decided to keep it because I love my sassy children.

Wait, what? Did I just post two chapters? Woah, that's crazy. LOL, see what I did there? "Woah", like when you want your horse to stop? OK, OK, comedian of the year right here. :)

I really hope you guys enjoy! Please, please, please tell me your opinion of what you think of my story, I'd very much appreciate it! OK, I'm done. Byyeee!
Aug 27, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		lol
by: Fern

LOL! You guys honestly don't know how happy this makes me to find that you guys actually read my story. Haha! I know it's not that popular of a story but it means a lot that y'all like it so thank you very much.

Also on a side note: I will be trying to update more often like once a week.

Lots of love,
Fern
Aug 26, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Three
by: Fern

I squinted my eyes shut, regretting that I'd come to the stables in the first place. I reluctantly opened them again and slowly turned around to the face my opposer. Please don't let me get in trouble, I thought to myself. A flashlight's bright light, shined greatly in my face, burning my eyes. I looked away and squinted my eyes, desperately trying to get a better look at the person.

"Tessa?" said a familiar tone. "What are you doing here?" They spit the last sentence out like a piece of metal burning in their mouth.

I rolled my eyes, immediately recognizing who the person is. "Can you quit shining your flashlight in my eyes? I'm going to go blind." I told James.
He immediately lowered his flashlight. I noticed he was carrying a bucket and a duffel bag.

"What's in the bag?" I questioned him.

He let out a soft sigh, "Just a few of Mocha's things." He hesitated before speaking again. "We won't continue into the jump off tomorrow, because we got disqualified and I... I don't have a horse to compete on anymore. Mocha she... she," he licked his lips before continuing, "She has really severe bone chips in her cannon bone and fetlock joint. And when her head fell on the ground, they said something about a crack in her skull. So... we just.." he sniffled. "Decided it'd be best to put her down, so she wouldn't be in any pain."

No. My heart shattered. This wasn't the same James from earlier; this was a more fragile James. A sad James, without a motive to be cocky or arrogant anymore. "I'm so sorry.." I whispered, "I-I didn't know.

"But why are you here?" He asked, returning to his old self. James wiped the tears from his eyes and glared at her.

"To see my mare. I don't board her in a stables; she uh.. lives in my backyard, so I was worried that she'd panic." I told him.

In the dark, I could see the boy raise his eyebrows in question. "Your backyard?" he asked. "You're telling me, that one of my biggest competitors, keeps her horse in her backyard? And you actually fell for it. Mocha's not dead; She has a bone chip so I'm selling her and buying a new horse. More of a level A horse." He busted out laughing.

My cheeks flushed. I clenched my fists, "You don't deserve a horse. I bet on your own you couldn't afford one, but hey, you have a foster family with a lot of money. So that's good."

His laughing died out as he glared at me. "How did you know about that?" James' tone was steely cold.

"Oh what? That your real mommy didn't want you so she put you up in foster care? Everyone on the circuit knows." I replied, a small smirk playing on my lips. "Or they will know. Talk to me like that again and you'll see what'll happen. Oh and by the way, your foster family has been fostering you for a while now; what has it been? Three years now? Why haven't they adopted you yet?" I faked a small frown between my thick eyebrows, acting concerned.

He was speechless.

"You see James, I don't like bullies. You know what I hate more than bullies? Fools who don't deserve the right to ride a horse. I will shut you down, if you think for a minute, you can talk to me like that again. I have to go now, stayed over my visit time. Good night James."

I spun on my heel, still radiating off heat.

Nobody, I mean nobody, insults me like that. Not Olivia, not the rest of everyone on the circuit, and definitely not James Kentington.

I hope you guys enjoyed this. Sorry for a late update. Umm... so Tessa kind of decided to be a savage today. Hope you guys enjoy! Until next time! - Fern
Aug 24, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SO GOOD!
by: Hoofprints in the Clouds

First of all, I just have to say that your book MUST be good cause Sydney commented on it! Hi Sydney! :D I didn't know she commented! I hope that she will comment on my book (America) even if it's to tell me that it's super horrible.

Second, YOUR BOOK IS SO AMAZING! I can't wait for when you write more! Blue roans are amazing! I LOVE how the main character (sorry, I forgot her name) has sassy comebacks!

So PLEAAAASSSSEEE write more! Maybe since James's family is rich, they can pay to have Mocha's leg fixed.
Aug 14, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Well written!
by: Sydney from HorseCrazyGirl.com

You write very well and you've got a good story going - please do continue to post!
Aug 14, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Great job girl!
by: hoofbeats

Hey, this is so cool! Please write more. I love the update!
Aug 12, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals: Chapter Two
by: Fern

For the readers who actually read this story, sorry for a late update. Hope y'all enjoy.

My round had been a blur. We ended the class with a double clear with a time of 33.9 seconds; landing us in first place in a class of 15. Ginger poured her heart out over every single jump in the arena, I couldn't be prouder.

"Hey."

I looked up, "Oh hey Olivia." She clutched a red ribbon in a gloved hand.

"You did pretty good out there, considering what just..happened before your round." She said, the last part coming out barely above a whisper.

I smiled and wiped a bead of sweat off my forehead. "Thanks. They'll probably be fine." No. They won't be fine. With a fall like that I wouldn't be surprised if his mare broke her leg. So why did I say it?

Olivia grew a frown between her thick eyebrows, "Sure, whatever Brooks." She rolled her eyes and walked her and her horse away.

Idiot. I gave Ginger a pat on her shoulder before dismounting. We placed in top 3 in both of our classes and tomorrow we would advance into the jump off; what a day.

If I said I wasn't tired, I guess I'd be lying. The accident of James' mare crashing onto the floor replayed on loop in my mind. It was... inescapable. I turned over in the hotel bed, desperately trying to find comfort in the bed. I hope Ginger was okay at the stables by herself; she's not used to being in a stall by herself. I would've stayed at the stables with her, except for the fact that Dad talked me out of it.

I glanced over at my parents; Dad was snoring lightly and Mom slept soundlessly on her side. I wonder if...no I couldn't. I'd be in so much trouble. That is, if they found out. I slowly kicked the covers off my body and sauntered over to my suitcase. I grabbed my paddock boots and slid them over my fuzzy socks. I quickly glanced at my sleeping parents before grabbing my ball cap and key card before soundlessly slipping out of the hotel room.

The door closed with a small click. My heart beat faster than a thoroughbred on a racetrack; I can't believe it. I just snuck out of the hotel, at 11 at night!! Without my parents permission.

I quietly snuck down the hall and into the elevator. The doors closed with a ding! As I went down to the main floor. The stables wasn't far from here, just two blocks down the street. I reached the bottom floor; a few people lingered in the lobby, but not too many. Classical music played softly from the speakers and rang throughout the whole floor.

Adrenaline pumped through my veins as I cautiously walked out of the hotel doors. Nobody noticed me; weird. The cold, crisp air hit my body like a bullet. I let out a gasp as the air seeped through my thin onesie. Looking both ways at the street, I jaywalked across when no cars were close. I lightly jogged, hopping my feet would take me to the stables quicker. A few cars passed me on the street, but besides that, nothing.

I arrived shortly at the stables; the gorgeous white building came into my view. My heart felt as if it were to beat out of my chest. I walked up to the steel gates and punched in the code to open them. 4769.

The gate shook to life and very slowly opened up to real the gorgeous grounds. I heaved heavily as I quickly walked past the gates and up to the stables. I looked around to see if anybody was watching. Nope. The barn doors were open, revealing the dimly lit isles. I clutched my phone in the hand and raced towards the stables.


I cautiously stepped inside the isle and looked inside; Ginger's stall was somewhere in the middle on the left side. The horses swiveled their heads in my direction. Some put their ears back, some greeted me with friendly faces. A few nickers could be heard throughout the barn.

"Ginger?" I whispered softly.

"Hey!!" Yelled a voice. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN HERE?"

Oh no.
Jul 31, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Amazing
by: Anonymous

Please write a part 4!
Mar 23, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spring Court Regionals
by: Fern

Thank you for reading my story guys! Hope y'all enjoyed it.
Mar 12, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Part Three: Spring Court Regionals, Chapter One
by: Fern

Focus. Take a deep breath. Relax, loosen up your reins, can’t hang on Ginger’s mouth like that. Heels down. Relax. Olivia had somehow managed to beat Ginger and I at the Thoroughbred Hunter Class, on her ‘new’ gelding she was leasing.

"Good girl Hazel." I posted at her airy trot and waited for the corner to come into sight, where we'd transition into the canter. We had about ten more minutes, until it was our turn for the spotlight.

They had five jumps set up in the middle of the warm-up arena. Several other riders and their horses recklessly cantered and trotted around the warm-up ring.

Olivia and her black stead were trotting in small circles near the back. As we passed the corner, I gave Ginger the cue to pick up a canter. She transitioned smoothly from a bouncy trot to a smooth rocking horse canter. I sat lightly in the saddle as we approached one of the middle jumps. It looked around three feet, nothing we couldn’t handle.

I positioned myself into the two-point position; Ginger flew over the jump; it felt like we were flying. I sat deep in the saddle when her front hooves touched the ground.

"Good girl!!" I exclaimed, giving her a pat on her withers.

"Why are you praising her? You’re little pony barely cleared that jump." A snarky voice said.

I sighed and rolled my eyes. Great, the last thing I needed was Olivia breathing down my neck.

"Whoa girl…" I said in a soft voice. Ginger transitioned from a canter to a walk. I looked up expecting it to be Olivia, but where she and her horse should’ve been standing, stood a boy atop a gorgeous light bay mare.

"Excuse me?" I retorted, walking Ginger over to the boy. I pulled back on my reins when the horse’s heads where almost two feet away from each other.

"Ginger cleared that fence with room to spare." I glared at the boy. He had skin like a caramel and a smallest dash of freckles on his face. His dark hair was hidden behind his helmet.

"I’m sorry, who are you?" I asked, squinting at him. Despite his attitude, he was kind of cute.

"James Kentington." He pompously replied. "And this is Caramel Mocha." He patted his horse’s flank. "We won the Jumpers Amateur League in New York, three years ago. My family and I just moved here." He paused for a small moment, looking me and Ginger up and down. "I know you..." He paused again, "Yeah, I definitely know you." He repeated. "You had that ugly little buckskin pony right? I know you." He snapped his fingers, like it would help him remember.

"T-tess. Ah Tessa Brooks right?"

"Huh.." I said, cocking my head. "That’s funny. I remember winning that championship, but I uh.. I don’t remember seeing you or your little first level horse."

James narrowed his eyes and bit his tongue from hiding whatever snarky remark he was thinking of.

"Now, I don’t mean to be rude but if you’ll excuse me, James, I have a competition to win." I gave a snarky smile.

"Walk on Ginger." Ginger walked on and I felt proud of myself. I remembered always watching those horse movies when I was younger, where there was always a girl competing in a competition and a mean girl who would pick on the girl and brag about how she was going to win the competition.

I never understood why the girl would never stick up for herself against the bully. I made a vow to myself, that no matter how mean people were on the circuit, I would always stick up for myself. Nobody would walk all over me.

"Ladies and Gentlemen thank you for coming today." spoke the loudspeaker. "Today, we have the Juniors Spring Court Regionals, age group: 14 - 17. Up first we have Olivia Cummings on her horse, Reign Over the Kingdom."

Lots of clapping and noise came from inside the arena.

"Please folks this is not a noise class, please keep the noise down." The announcer spoke.

Olivia had a clear round, 36. 5 seconds.

"Good job." I told her and held my hand out for a high five. I looked straight ahead. I was up after two more people.

"Thanks." She said breathing hard. Her gelding was stopped next to my mare. Olivia swept a strand of damp hair out of her face.

"Don’t let James Kentington bother you. He’s just a wannabe rider that lives with a foster family that has too much money."

I let out a small laugh. "Thanks."

58.2 seconds. A girl and a big, stocky gelding came out of the arena. I gave her an encouraging smile. There was no way that a horse that stocky should have even been allowed near these jumps. It wasn’t even possible for them to make it over have of those jumps. Does it count as mean, if I think these things in my head and not say them out loud? Probably. Oh well.

James and his mare walked wordlessly entered the arena. His mare was gorgeous. They duo soared over every jump, they were so fast. They looked like a brown blur. They approached the last fence and jumped it at at awkward angle.

Anyone would’ve known as soon as his horse took her last stride and prepared to jump, that their round wasn’t going to be clear. They went over the last jump and the pole knocked to the ground. James’ mare, Mocha tripped and let out an agonizing screech.

I covered my mouth with my hand. James flew over the horse’s withers as his mare’s head collided with the ground and rolled onto her side.

"Oh my gosh." I said softly, my eyes widened with awe. The crowd stood up in their seats as judges and coaches scrambled to reach the flailing duo. There was a chorus of ‘Oh no’s’ and ‘Aws’ from the crowd.

James immediately pushed himself up and raced over to his mare. She was struggling to get up and finally when she stood up, she crumbled back to the ground again. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Ginger let out a low whinny, as if she had the same thoughts as I, running through her mind.

James stood a good distance away from Mocha, while continuously giving encouraging words to his mare. Mocha finally pushed herself off the ground, but kept weight off of her front right leg.

Two adults rushed towards James, who I assumed were his parents, and embraced him a tight grasp. He pushed them off and slowly walked towards Mocha. He took the reins off of her neck and rubbed her forehand with his palm.

I'm not religious, but at that exact moment in time and space, I said a little prayer, one that could only be heard by God. If what happened to my little buckskin pony a few months after the Jumpers Amateur League in New York, is going to happen to Mocha, James would be in for a future of pain.

James and the two adults, that looked nothing like him, walked out of the arena with the bay mare by James’ side. I stared emotionlessly at him as he walked past. What could I say? What could I do? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

When Mocha's front hooves touched the ground, the shock clock stopped at 33.8 seconds. Since my round hadn't gone yet, that would've put him in second place because of the 4 second penalty. 37.8 seconds. His round was 37.8 seconds, but it only took 5 for a life-changing disaster to occur.
Jan 30, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		amazing
by: MKrider

This story was very well done. I would love to see part two!
Jan 29, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Part Two
by: Fern

I didn’t want to go home. If I could have, I would have stayed in that meadow with my two best friends forever. But I couldn't. Well, not today anyways, I told my parents that I was going to be home for dinner that night and I couldn't miss out, again.

The three of us rode back to Maria's house chattering away about the Spring Court Regional. Georgie was going to be in the second junior Hunter class and I was in the first Hunter class and the two Jumping competitions. Maria and Churro were doing the Western Pleasure class. We split ways after a while and all headed home.

I recklessly cantered Teddy home through the empty street. He let out a loud whinny as we approached home. As I pulled him to a stop and dismounted, I realized that the gate was wide open. Maybe James, my brother was back there playing catch or something. Teddy and I walked through the gate and into the backyard.

"Ginger girl, we're home!!!" I called out, expecting a whinny.

I received no whinny. In fact, Ginger was nowhere in sight to be found. Where was my chestnut mare? My heart started to pound. What if someone took her? Was she okay? Where was my baby girl? I took Teddy's bridle off and left him go back to eating. I thought real hard. Oh my goodness! MY HORSE RAN AWAY!

"LOST HORSE"

Flyers dotted telephone poles, restaurant and school bulletins. It had been three days since Ginger disappeared. Three long, and heart wrenching days. We had gotten her chipped when we first got her. Just as a precautionary measure.

"You’ll find her..." Mia told me, wearing a sympathetic smile on her face. I gave a weak smile in return. I hadn’t eaten anything since the disappearance of my mare. How could I? If I had simply just shut the back gate all the way she wouldn’t be gone. She would still be in my backyard when I got home.

"Don’t worry about it." Georgie said, "She’s probably just looking for a stallion to do her bidding." That cracked a smile on my lips.

"Thanks guys.." I replied, staring dully at my lunch.

Mia let out a sigh, "Welp... here comes trouble."

"So Tessa, I saw this in the registration office yesterday when I was registering for the Spring Court Regionals Juniors Division." said a voice.

I looked up. Olivia Cummings towered over me with the LOST HORSE flyer with Ginger’s picture on it, in her grasp.

"It’s really a bummer that there won’t be any competition for me then."

"Don’t you have better things to do?" Mia asked.

Olivia scoffed, "I do actually. Just thought I’d stop by, and give you my condolences."

"Yeah that and training on your new OTTB gelding, that your Daddy bought you?" Georgie retorted with a small laugh.

"That too." Olivia responded.

I stood up. Olivia was only a few inches taller than me; but that made it harder for me to look down on her. I held my head high and stared coldly at Olivia, "I will find Ginger and when I do, we are going to kick you and your ‘totally awesome’ gelding's a**."

Another day went by without Ginger. Then another and another. The day’s without her seemed ongoing; they seemed to last forever.

Everyday after school, I’d take Teddy, Ginger’s halter and leadrope and search for her. Everywhere I looked so far was empty.

I sat in the backyard with Teddy, finishing up the rest of my homework. Mr. Magnesium for some reason, has been giving me endless amounts of homework, ever since Ginger went missing. But maybe that was a good thing, it keeps the thought of her off my mind.

Teddy let out a big whinny as a big truck and trailer pulled up. I pushed my books and notebook off my lap and curiously went to see what all the commotion was about. Olivia Cummings stood by the big red truck with her arms crossed. Her dad sat in the passenger seat, looking at his phone.

"Why are you here?" I asked her, staring her down.

"I wanted to show you my gelding. You know the OTTB? Just so that you’d know what you’d be going up against if you were competing." Olivia replied, moving to the back of the truck.

Seriously? This was exactly what I needed right now. A reminder of the horse show, that we’d been training for, for months, that I can’t do because I don’t have a horse. I sauntered over to the back of the truck as Olivia opened up the trailer.

Inside were two horses: The OTTB, Reign. A gorgeous black gelding, with a big blaze starting at his forelock and ending at his muzzle and next to him, a chestnut mare with a star smack dead in the middle of her forehead.

"Ginger?" I gasped. I turned to look at Olivia. "How did you- Where did you find her?"

"Hello? Weren’t we here to talk about Reign, not your little mare?" Olivia replied. A playful smile rested on her face.

"Oh my gosh..." I was speechless. Ginger let out a low whinny and extended her long, graceful neck to get a sniff at me. I reached up and hugged her, around her neck.

"You’re welcome." Olivia said, leaning against the trailer. "Your mare was on my property, looking for Buster’s Baby Boy, my older sister's Palomino Thoroughbred stallion. You remember him from the auction last year? We were going to sell him, but... we didn’t."

"How could I not remember him?" I said in response. I stepped back as Ginger stepped out of the trailer on her own. "He was gorgeous."

Olivia nodded, "That mare of yours. Ginger, she jumped a few of our gates and fences. All of our fences are about six feet tall."

"Thank you Olivia. I’d hug you, but I don’t want to risk getting whatever you have that causes you to get second place." I smiled.

Olivia rolled her eyes, "I think you already have it ‘hon."
Jan 23, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks guys!!!
by: Fern

Awww you guys are so sweeet! I am trying to upload a part two very soon. Hopefully by tonight, Tuesday or Wednesday I'll have it up. Thanks guys!
Jan 23, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So cool!
by: claudiahorselovr

I love when I can find a story that is mature and not rushed. When the characters spoke you didn't always end it with "she/he said" which is really hard to do! Well done! I love how the characters are about 16, cause you said about her driving. Most stories, they are 14, which gets tiring after awhile! This is awesome! Please do a part two!
Jan 19, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		:D
by: AHorseLovingGirl

It's great! I'd read a part 2 :)

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