Nick’s heart did a little flip when they broached the top of the last hill between them and Elk’s Ridge. The sky was clear, the road for once free of mud and ice, and there was a slight breeze. Glancing sideways at Todd, Nick grinned. Todd returned a bright smile of his own and added a wink.
It was as if their horses knew their thoughts. Both animals shook their heads, and their gaits became springier. Nick leaned forward a tad and let the reins he held sag, releasing the gentle tension against Obi’s bit. He was a mere pace behind Todd. Arenite had leapt to a lively canter a few seconds before.
It felt good to let the horses stretch their legs and get a nice run in for a few minutes. By the time they reached the edge of town, Nick felt refreshed and his head was clearer than it had been
