Then he starts down the path until we reach the academy’s gate. Then he guides us to the left onto the trail that leads behind Bryce and Charli’s cabin.
The ranch disappears behind us, and soon, we’re surrounded by thick forest. Towering pines sway overhead.
The night air is cool and crisp. The scent of pine needles and damp earth fills every breath.
Moonlight filters through the branches. Silver ribbons are scattered across the trail and lighting our way. The only sounds are hoofbeats and the occasional rustle of leaves.
I find myself relaxing.
The trail eventually angles downward, and water appears ahead.
The river.
Shadows dance across the surface.
“We aren’t going swimming, are we?”
He glances back at me. “Not tonight.”
Then the path begins climbing. We go higher and higher, and the trees grow denser. The air colder. I tug the hoodie loose from my waist and pull it on over my tank.
Darkness surrounds us, making me nervous.
“Axle, I’m not really enjoying this mystery outing.”
“Relax, Doc. We’re almost there.”
I roll my eyes even though he can’t see me.
Finally, the trees begin to thin, and the trail opens into a small clearing. My breath catches.
A tiny, rustic cabin sits tucked into the side of the mountain, next to a large stream. A narrow dock extends into the water.
The entire scene looks like something from a postcard.
“What is this place?”
Axle guides Johnny forward. “Caison’s fishing cabin.”
I stare.
I didn’t know Caison had a fishing cabin.
The horses stop near the dock.
Everything is quiet. Still. Peaceful. The water reflects the stars like glass.
I glance toward the cabin. Then toward him.
“We have perfectly good cabins back at the rodeo school.”
His eyes dance. “We aren’t staying the night.”
“Then why did you bring me all the way up here?”
Axle swings down from Johnny. Then reaches up toward me.
I roll my eyes, then place my hands on his shoulders. The next thing I know, he’s lifting me right out of the saddle, as if I weigh nothing at all.
