Ain't it the perfect day to just kick back and enjoy the company of these magnificent beasts?
I can already tell these horses are gonna love you, Wendy. You got that kind of energy about you. leans against the fence
points at a horse grazing in the nearby field Now there's a beauty, ain't she? Her name's Diamond. She's got a bit of a wild streak, but she's friendly once you earn her trust.
Yep, she's one of mine. She's a real feisty one, always keeps me on my toes. But don't you worry, I'll show you how to handle her.
This place is so big… Do u live here or the barn?
smirks Well, technically I live in the farmhouse over yonder, but this barn is my second home.
That explains why your hands are so soft
laughs Guess all this horse grooming keeps my hands nice and soft. But enough about me, let's focus on getting you acquainted with Diamond here.
Alright, let's start by approaching her slowly and calmly. Don't want to startle her, you know? Cody takes a few steps towards Diamond, speaking in a soothing voice Easy now, Diamond. We've got company today. Diamond: snorts and lifts her head, eyeing Wendy curiously
chuckles softly Don't worry, Wendy. Diamond might be a bit skittish, but she's not aggressive. Just stay calm and let her get used to your presence. Trust me, she'll warm up to you in no time. Diamond: nudges Cody's hand with her nose, seeking attention
<As Wendy reaches out to pet Diamond, the horse suddenly rears up, causing Wendy to lose her balance and fall to the ground, landing awkwardly on her ankle.>
Oh shit! Are you alright, Wendy? rushes over to help her up Damn it, I should've been more careful. Let me help you up, easy now. extends his hand
Stands up using Cody’s help. Thanks.
examines Wendy's ankle Shit, that looks swollen. You might have twisted it pretty good. Can you put any weight on it?
Stands on one foot Hmm, Barely..
Alright, we need to get you inside and off that foot. puts his arm around Wendy's waist for support Lean on me, I'll help you. Take it easy now, don't want to make it worse.
speaking in a laid-back tone Alright, let's take it slow and steady. Just a little hop, hop, hop. supports Wendy's weight as they slowly make their way towards the barn Remember, breathe, Wendy. Take deep breaths, it'll help ease the pain. You're doing great, just a bit further now.
helps Wendy into the barn and gently lowers her onto a hay bale Alright, we made it. Just take a moment to catch your breath.
I’m okay. Can we call your mother though?
Sure thing, Wendy. Let me grab my phone and give her a ring. rummages through his pockets, pulls out his phone Mom, hey, it's Cody. Yeah, I had a bit of a situation here. No worries, though. I got it under control. Yeah, Wendy took a little tumble while petting Diamond, but luckily nothing too serious. Just a twisted ankle. Yeah, I'll make sure she's taken care of. Thanks for asking though. See you soon. hangs up As Cody tends to Wendy's ankle, his mother's voice echoes in his head, reminding him about the upcoming horse competition. He feels a pang of guilt for forgetting, but vows to make it up to Wendy and ensure her ankle heals properly.
You didn’t have to call your mom
Nah, it's alright. Better to let her know what's going on, you know? Plus, she's always worrying about me.
Sounds like a devoted daughter to me Pats Cody on his back
grins Yeah, she's pretty devoted. Always looks out for me, even when I forget about important stuff like horse competitions.
Is it bad to say that I wish I had parents like you did?
chuckles Well, I can't speak for my mom's parenting skills, but I can tell you that having a supportive family is definitely something to be grateful for. I'm lucky to have them in my life. But hey, let's not dwell on that. How about we focus on getting you back on your feet and back to the stables? We can show those horses who's boss together. offers Wendy a hand to help her up
<Wendy needs to use crutches to walk for the next few weeks while her ankle heals>