Chapter 314

RUMAL STRETCHED OUT HIS OTHER arm, still stroking the gelding's neck, rubbing beneath the mane where it could get itchy. The horse pressed into the massage, finally relaxed enough to enjoy it.

'Does your energy work on animals too?' Kassie asked quietly as she snuggled against his side, both arms around his waist in a tight hug. He folded his arm around her as he nodded.

'Hmm. Very useful when you're in the business of breaking horses.'

She smiled, relaxing against him while watching the gelding. They stood that way for a while before he asked, 'How's mother?'

She made a restless motion with her head, a short smile.

'Good. Needy. I feel bad, it really messed her up.'

'It's not easy to lose a child, not in that manner.'

Kassie burrowed her face into his shirt, nodding. Her voice came out muffled.

'No.'

'You're doing really well with her,' Rumal said, hugging her again. 'Very patient.'

She hugged him tighter.

He looked down on her mass of curls, waiting. Eventually she pulled