Chapter Twenty-Six
Beth trotted Shannon down the drive on a loose rein. The mare’s fine black coat was lathered with sweat, and veins stood out as shiny sinews beneath her satin skin. With nostrils flared wide, the mare gulped down lungfuls of fresh air, her heart beating fast. It had been a hard morning’s ride. Galloping at punishing speeds through the bush was Beth’s latest way of releasing tension. Shannon thoroughly enjoyed these wild rides, though she was a little puzzled by the change in tempo. Riding with her mistress had previously been a much more sedate affair.
Horse and rider headed down the hill to the stable yard, both looking forward to a refreshing drink. Beth dismounted and swore under her breath when she saw the empty trough. The dry summer had left water reserves low in
