*Aria*
I stand frozen, my heart racing as I clutch Riley to my side, his body trembling against my own. The chaos around us feels surreal, the night filled with the roar of flames and the frantic sounds of men fighting to save the stables, to stop it from spreading. I watch, helpless, as the fire rages on, and the acrid smell of smoke fills the air.
Suddenly, a small group of horses bursts from the stable, Ryder must have opened their stalls so they could escape, their eyes wide with terror as they bolt toward the pasture. The men move quickly, guiding them with shouts and gestures, trying to corral them before they escape too far. My heart aches at the sight; I can’t bear to think of any horses that may be left behind, trapped in the inferno.
“Mom, look!” Riley points, his voice shakin
