APRIL 23, 1860
As they watched Michael ride off, Caly looked at the man that had stolen her heart and said, "I am not sure I can do this.You sure no one knows what happened?"
Buck reached over and squeezed her hand saying, "I am sure. They only knew that he beat you pretty bad. They all care about you."
Smiling back at him and saying, "Thank you. Lets get going before I change my mind."
"Okay come on, lets go have some fun." Buck said before they mounted.
They rode in silence to the schoolyard while enjoying each others company.
As they tied their horses up with the others, Buck asked, "You okay?"
Nodding and taking a deep breath Caly said, "I think so." But Buck could tell she was a little scared. He knew she was a strong lady and that she would do her best to keep her promise to him, about trying not to let what had happened change her.
They walked around and talked with the others there. Then they sat under a tree with a few of the other riders. While sitting there Corey came over and started talking with Buck. Caly sat quietly back not letting her know she was there. She wasn't sure that she was ready to trust Corey just yet. It would be a while before she could trust anyone for a while, except Buck.
While they were talking Caly noticed the looks Corey kept giving Buck. She figured that Corey liked him. Smiling to herself she knew this competition for his affection would be a fun and friendly one.
Someone called for everyone who was going to be in the horse race to mount up. Buck turned and pulled Caly to her feet saying, "Now I know Corey is in the race. How about you?"
"Thats the only one I am in. I am still not to comfortable around everyone yet. But any chance Starbright has to beat Wind Dancer she will." Caly said with a slight smile.
Corey looked at Caly and said, "NO. I don't have a horse today, and I can't ride in this dress anyway. But I'll be ready for the three-legged race, Buck. OH Caly, I am sorry to hear about what happened to you. I am glad youre doing better."
"Thank you Corey. However, you can ride in a dress. I know several women who ride in dresses, but I understand. See you for the next race." Caly said as Buck led her over to their horses. They mounted up and went to the starting line.
The race started and Caly crouched low over Starbright's neck. Through the race Caly caught herself laughing and having a good time. She smiled when she saw Buck and Wind Dancer catching up to them. Even thought they didn't win it was fun.
Caly stood and cheered Buck and Corey on in the three-legged race. She congratulated them when they won. Buck entered all the other races and games.
For the first time in almost two months Caly seemed to be happy. She glanced at her father and smiled. She hugged Buck and told him he gave it a good try every time after the games he didn't win.
As the day wore on Caly and Buck had a good time. As everyone started to leave Buck was sitting with Caly and said, "I am happy to see you smile and laugh again. I do hope that means you had a good time?"
Caly nodded saying, "I did have a good time. It felt so good to smile and laugh again."
Just then Caly spotted Daniel coming towards them. Caly swallowed and said, "Buck, Daniel is headed our way."
Buck could hear a little fear in her voice. He turned around and waved to Daniel while making sure Caly felt safe behind him. He knew that Caly was trying, but she was still scared.