Finally, things made sense. "So you told her you'd confess."
"Yeah. I went back to the dean and told him I did it, and suddenly everything went out of control. I went to court right away, and Dad said he'd handle it, but the judge didn't care about Dad and sentenced me to community service. And now everyone thinks I'm not only a cheat but a criminal and a liar, too."
Mia sighed. "Oh, sweetheart, what a mess. You never told your dad you didn't vandalize the car?"
"No, I was afraid if I told him the truth, he'd force me to tell the dean who really did it."
"What happened with these kids you thought were your friends?"
Chloe swiped at her eyes. "They were so grateful for what I did. We began hanging out, and I really liked them at first. They were fun and always treated me so nice, but then they started doing things that bothered me. Stupid stuff like picking fights with people they thought were judging them. Or stealing from stores they said had too much money. The guys smoked a lot of pot, and that's never been my thing. I started realizing maybe I had made a big mistake, so I began telling them I was busy."
Oh, Mia knew that feeling well. How many times had she not trusted her gut because she wanted something to work out so badly? Chloe craved a group of tight friends that made her feel safe. "What happened when they picked you up at the inn?"
"At first, it was fun. We hung out and hiked, but then later they said they wanted to go to the diner. They started acting all crazy there, making a scene, and Bea came over to say something, so they got pissed and ditched the check. It happened so fast, I didn't know what to do. I told them I didn't want to do that shit, but they just laughed at me. Called me a pussy." She shook her head hard. "That's when I said I was done. I told them I didn't want to hang out anymore, but they kept calling, and when I finally asked them to just leave me alone, they threatened me. Said if I told anyone about the truth of the vandalism, they'd make sure I regretted it. They ended up going back to Bea's Diner to cause more trouble, then sent me a picture with a nasty text. And a few days later, Ethan found the barn messed up. I freaked out and was afraid to tell you or Ethan the truth. I know it was them trying to scare me." Her lower lip trembled. "I haven't seen them, but they keep calling. I'm so screwed up, Mia. I hate myself. What am I going to do?"
Mia couldn't hold back anymore. She reached out and took Chloe in her arms for a long hug. There were so many pitfalls growing up. Yes, the girl had made serious mistakes, but Mia also knew in her gut no one could punish her more than herself. Chloe hugged her back, and it was a while before she finally pulled away.
"They're users, Chloe. They feel crappy inside, and the more so-called friends they pull in, it helps divert attention from their real problems. Does that make sense?"
Chloe nodded.
"Ethan's right about one thing: you paid your dues with community service, and you weren't even the one who did the vandalism. That's a clean slate. As for Bea, I think the best thing to do would be to march into that diner with your head held high and apologize."
"Do you think she'll press charges?" she asked. Her skin looked pale with fear. "I'd be in more trouble."
"I don't know," she said honestly. "But if you're straight with her, she may give you a break."
"Okay. I can do that."
Mia squeezed her arm. "Good. The barn wasn't your fault, but we need to let Ethan know so he can protect the property. I think you should tell him the truth, too. All of it. And if I know him at all, that will square things with him, too."
"What about my dad? He'll force me to leave, I know he will."
"Do you want to stay here? Even with all the trouble that happened?" Mia asked.
"I do. I love the town and the horse farm and the college. I don't want them to chase me away. Dad would tell me that's the way you let the bad guys win."
Mia smiled. "Well said. We have to tell your dad. But I can try and help convince him that you're owed a second chance to make things right."
"Mia, can you just wait to tell him? Please? Just a few more days. There's only three weeks left here, and I have a feeling he may just yank me back. I want to finish what I started. That's it. I swear, I'll tell him everything."
It was the determination and truth in her blue eyes that helped Mia make the decision. "I'll give you until Friday. I can't wait any longer, Chloe, it just wouldn't be fair to him."
"Okay, I can work with that."
"Let's finish our hike, and you can talk to Ethan. Then I'll drive you to the diner."
"I feel like I'm going to throw up."
Mia laughed. "I know, sweetie. Life really sucks sometimes, especially when you're trying to do the right thing."
The girl turned to her, eyes filled with emotion. "Thank you, Mia. Even when I gave you a hard time, you had my back. It means a lot to me."
Mia smiled at the girl and squeezed her hand. The birds chirped and the creek gushed and the trees bent in the breeze. Mia savored the moment with this young girl who was finding her way and giving her a trust that meant the world to her. She didn't know how things would end, but one thing was for sure: Mia was going to fight for the girl.
Chapter Twenty-Two
"Steady, boy. I have a feeling this is gonna be the day."
Phoenix stared back, gaze fixed on the saddle held in front of him. But the horse's head was high up, and no nervousness emanated from his form. As usual, Ethan greeted him by stroking his sweet spot, and the horse bumped his pocket, looking for the oatmeal cookie he expected from these regular sessions. This time, Ethan didn't offer it right away. Keeping up his chatter, he presented the saddle to him, stroking his left flank, and began to slowly move toward his body. The horse stood and allowed the saddle pad to be adjusted, waiting with patience as Ethan buckled the straps and adjusted the stirrups. Good. They'd moved ahead, but now it was time for the true test. It was time for Ethan to ride him.
Grasping the reins, Ethan put a leg in the stirrup and began to haul himself up.
The horse backed up in stubborn refusal.
Ethan regarded him. Phoenix held his gaze, the battle of wills finally to its breaking point. After hours of getting him comfortable with his presence and the saddle, it was time to test the trust issue. The sessions had indicated Phoenix had been whipped, probably forced to race under duress, and what he'd once loved in his Thoroughbred heart had been warped. But Ethan sensed if he could get him to run again with pleasure, they'd finally reach a turning point.
Ethan grinned, stroking his pocket. "Gonna make you work for this treat today, boy. You let me ride, and you get your cookie. I think it's a fair deal. Especially since Ophelia made this batch especially for you."
Phoenix snorted and moved a few inches closer. Ethan stroked his head. "I'm asking one more time for trust. I won't let you down if you give me a chance."
Ethan stared into those beautiful brown eyes that had seen way too much but still held a tiny glimmer of hope. Opening himself up to the animal, he let his emotion flow through his stroking fingertips and in his gaze. Then he lifted his leg to mount.
And swung himself into the saddle.
Phoenix remained still. Pride filled Ethan's veins, along with a fierce burst of adrenaline and power that sitting on top of a racehorse gave. It was a gift that went both ways, and it never failed to humble him. He held the reins in a firm yet light grip and gave a whistle.
"Let's go, boy. Nice and easy."
His heels nudged the horse's flanks with just a gentle touch, and Phoenix took off. He stretched his legs in a leisurely walk, as if rediscovering the feel of carrying a rider again. Ethan let him set the pace, eventually moving to a nice steady gait, keeping up a stream of encouragement. They left the fenced-in area behind and took off into the open meadow. Horses grazed freely, chickens flocked around, and the two hound dogs howled in pleasure as they chased squirrels. The mountains sprawled before them in majestic glory and a reminder of how small their presence was, how fleeting their time, how precious their moments.
P
hoenix began to trot, seeming to catch the energy in the air, and broke into a canter. Ethan guided him toward the flat space where earth met sky and the meadow spread out in endless acres of green. "When you're ready, Phoenix. When you're ready, go for it."
The horse caught his words on the breeze. Ears pricked, his strong, graceful body kicked up a few notches, and then they were racing across the meadow.
Time stopped. The horse ran with a freedom that took Ethan with him for the ride. The world blurred as power unleashed from the animal, and he raced harder, hooves pounding, mane flying in the wind, the wicked speed unfurling at a rapid pace Ethan had never experienced.
He let Phoenix run it out for a little while, all the demons and memories left behind in the dust, freeing them both. In those precious moments, Ethan was able to let go and realize the past didn't have to dictate his future. And when Phoenix finally slowed down, Ethan guided him back toward the stables, slightly stunned from the experience.
He slid off the Thoroughbred, sliding his hand over the sheen of sweat gleaming on his coat, and took out the cookie. Phoenix munched on the treat with the same ecstasy Mia exhibited when she allowed herself to indulge, making a grin curve his lips.
"Good boy. You are magnificent, just like I always thought. Thank you."
His name echoed in the air. He turned and found Harper walking toward him, her face alight with joy. "You rode him," she breathed out in respect. "I saw you racing in the meadow. Dear God, Ethan, he was amazing. He's like lightning. How did he do?"
Ethan faced his sister. A lump lodged in his throat. It took him a few times to clear it before he was able to speak. "He's special, Harp. A racehorse through and through. He just lost the way." He paused, a bigger realization looming before him that he couldn't ignore. "We both did."
Harper reached out and took his hand, squeezing hard. "We all do, big brother. But you found it again, and so did he. And this one's going to accomplish amazing things. I think I finally found my winner."
"I think you did, too."
They both watched Phoenix dig out another cookie, happily munching without realizing something extraordinary had just occurred. The inner lockbox inside Ethan shook and released a series of truths he'd only been trying to hide from himself.
And just like that, he realized he'd fallen in love with Mia Thrush.
Now what the hell was he going to do about that?
Mia watched from a distance as Ethan dismounted Phoenix and began speaking with Harper.
A fierce shaking thrummed through her body, moving from her limbs to her belly to her heart. The melding of horse and man she'd witnessed was almost holy. It was as if both of them had freed a piece of themselves within that ride. The devotion and pride etched on Ethan's face--glimpsed from the shadows of the barn--humbled her.
What was she going to do?
Precious days were left. Jonathan had already emailed her with a loaded schedule for when she returned. Her assistant had officially declared herself overrun and said she was marking down the days of her return. Mia had just managed to sign a new client who was in the running for the new face of Cover Girl but was fighting a murky past that unfortunately included a sex video. Damn ex-boyfriends. Mia had already warned Chloe about taking her clothes off on her iPhone for anyone, and the girl had laughed and swore she wouldn't. At least Mia had a firm plan of attack and defense sketched out, but she needed to be back in the city.
Away from Ethan.
She watched him walk toward her with Phoenix in tow, then noticed his slightly exaggerated limp. She'd suspected he was in pain last night, but when she tried to fuss, he distracted her by getting naked. His body was like sugar to her--a sweet addiction she had no control over. And damned if she hadn't savored every last taste.
Hei Hei walked over her foot and rubbed his head feathers against her leg. She looked down with a laugh. "It's not about you, right now. It's about Phoenix and his incredible ride."
The chicken squawked.
Chloe ran over, squealing with excitement. "Mia, did you see? He rode Phoenix! He was so fast. Is that normal, Ethan? Are horses usually that fast?"
Ethan grinned, sweat dripping from his brow, but as usual, he was more concerned with the horse. "Haven't seen one this fast other than at the track. Let's get him washed down and some fresh water. Chloe, do you want to help John do it? I've noticed you've been visiting Phoenix a lot, and he's getting comfortable with you."
The girl beamed. "Yeah, I've been sneaking in some extra time with him. I'd love to help. Thanks."
Mia watched their easy interactions, relieved their relationship had grown stronger after Chloe told him the truth about the vandalism and the diner. He'd actually accompanied them to see Bea, and the united front, along with Chloe's honesty and raw apology, helped heal the breaks. Chloe had given Bea the first week of her pay, and Bea had taken it. With that exchange, they'd reached an understanding.
"Welcome." He helped set it up and let John take over once the horse was settled. Then he turned and pinned her with that bright-blue gaze. "Spying again?"
She didn't hesitate. Just walked into his arms, lifted herself up on tiptoes, and kissed him. He growled deep in his throat and kissed her back, his arms grasping her hips to keep her in place. He withdrew slowly, nipping at her bottom lip, and regarded her with suspicious eyes. "What brought this on?"
"That was hot."
He laughed. "Saw the whole thing, huh?"
"It was amazing, Ethan. It was so . . . beautiful."
His gaze softened, and he stroked her cheek. "Still a long way to go. He's got amazing potential, but we don't know how far we can push."
"You gave him back something precious that he'd lost."
A mixture of raw emotion hit her like a fist through her solar plexus. He hesitated, as if struggling to tell her something, then dropped his hand and stepped back. "All in a day's work," he said lightly.
Disappointment crashed through her. She noticed him shift his weight again. "Your knee is bothering you."
He glanced down. "I skipped doing PT this week. Doctors said sometimes the scars can cause phantom pain. I better finish up here. Catch you later?"
She forced a smile. Why did he suddenly seem so distant? "Sure."
She turned, took a few steps, and his arm shot out to stop her. "Mia."
"Yeah?"
"Dinner at the inn, right?"
His gaze held a heat and need he allowed her to see. This time, the smile bubbled up from inside. "Definitely."
She headed back with Hei Hei at her heels.
Later that night, she looked around the dinner table and wondered how this family had managed to make her feel so at home so quickly. Ophelia had finally let her help with the dishes. When had it become so important to be treated like she belonged rather than a mere guest?
Chloe's voice cut through her thoughts. "Ophelia, Mia has never seen a Disney movie."
Ethan's sister froze. Distress flickered over her graceful features. "Please tell me that's not true."
Mia sighed and shot Chloe a look. "It's true. We're more of a History channel family than Disney. In fact, my father warned me it would give me false expectations about the real world."
"Bull," Ophelia shot out. Her blue eyes flashed fire. "Watching Disney movies is the only thing that can prepare you for the real world," she said passionately. "They help kids deal with the tough stuff--losing parents at a young age, getting lost, growing up, being bullied, etc."
Mia glanced over at Ethan for help, but he was shaking his head. "Don't get me involved in this discussion," he said, grabbing another ear of fresh corn. "Why do you think every animal we ever owned is named after a Disney character?"
"I think that's so amazing," Chloe sighed. "It's like each of them has an identity and a force that lives inside."
Mia's mouth fell open. "Did you just wax poetic over cartoons?"
"You don't know the power until you've experienced it," Harper warned. "Mom was a huge advocate,
and every time a DVD was released from the vault, we'd make a celebration out of it."
"Popcorn, and pillows, and staying up past bedtime," Ophelia added. "And we all have a favorite movie that comes out in our personalities."
"Fascinating," Mia murmured. "Which one is yours?"
"Peter Pan," Ophelia answered. "Ethan's been calling me Tink since I was young. Says I look like a fairy."
Ethan reached over and pulled on one of her red curls. "You do. Plus, when things don't go your way, you get mad and sulk. You're a bit of a control freak."
"I don't sulk! And I just like things organized. How is that a bad thing?"
Mia jumped to her defense. "It's not," she told Ophelia, throwing a stern look in Ethan's direction. "You couldn't be successful running this inn if you weren't organized."
Ophelia grinned. "Thanks."
Ethan groaned. "Why am I always surrounded by women who never take my side?"
Harper stuck out her tongue. "'Cause your side is always the wrong one."
"What's yours, Harper?" Mia asked, getting into the swing of the game.
"Dumbo," Harper answered, rolling her eyes. "A fascinating study in being bullied, abused by higher-ups to perform on command, and the eventual growth into power once you find your unique talent."
"Impressive, Harp," Ethan said with a grin. "At least you finally reached your goal of ridding all the circuses of show elephants."
Satisfaction curled in her voice. "Took a damn long time, but we got there."
Chloe spoke up. "Wanna guess mine?"
Everyone at the table studied her in silence, trying to make up their mind. Mia had heard of a few, of course, but had never personally watched them, so she waited for the consensus. "I can't decide if you like princesses or not," Ophelia murmured, tapping her finger against her lip. "Maybe. Is it Brave?"
"Nope. But you're kind of close."
"Sleeping Beauty?" Harper tried.
"No. Give up?"
"Elsa from Frozen." Everyone swiveled their gaze to stare. Ethan shifted in his seat, looking as if he already regretted speaking up. "Elsa isn't your normal princess. She's a bit of a badass, trying to find her way and carve out her own path."
"Yes," Chloe whispered. Her face flushed in pleasure. "That's it."
"Which leaves Ethan," Mia said. "Now I'm dying of curiosity."