Chapter 3

Out in the small shelter behind the house, Garrett wrapped Midnight’s injured leg tightly with the strips of cloth Cammy had found for him. Though he was in a hurry, he made certain that he’d supported the leg properly. In truth, he feared that the horse might be damaged beyond repair because of what he was about to do. Still, there was just no other choice. Remembering the expression on Cammy’s face when she told him how scared she was made Garrett work quickly.

That poor little thing is so frightened. I’ve got to get her to Angus so I can go looking for her mother. My greatest concern is how to keep her warm while we ride through this blasted storm.

A loud bellow from the only resident of the stable interrupted Garrett’s ponderings. He turned to the old cow, whose enormous eyes seemed to stare right at him, and said,“Easy there, Gertie. I’m going to take good care of Cammy for you…sounds like the two of you are pretty good friends.”

Garrett couldn’t help but smile as he recalled the way Cammy’s eyes lit up when she told Garrett about Gertrude. He had been grateful for the chance to talk about something that took Cammy’s mind off her troubles, and had watched with delight as her tears disappeared and she began to chatter…

“Gertie’s our cow…’cept her weal name is Gertwude. Do you know what a cow is? It is kinda like a howse‘cept a lot chubbier and smaller….and did you know that cow’s make lots of milk?!”

“They can’t wun fast like howses do, though‘cause they’re kinda chubby. They just stand awound an’ eat gwass. I think that Gertie loves me a lot,‘cause Mama says she gives more milk when I’m milking her than when she does!”

Garrett shook his head and chuckled at the memory. In fact, he had been unable to leave Cammy to take care of Midnight without making a solemn promise to give Gertie a kiss for her. Amused, Garrett chuckled again and spoke aloud to Gertie the cow,“Sorry to disappoint you, fair Gertrude, but you shall have to be satisfied with a handful of hay and a pat on the back.”

After Garrett had finished feeding the cow, he grabbed Midnight’s reigns and led him toward the stable door. He then abruptly turned back toward Gertie. Feeling quite ridiculous but obligated to do so, he blew the old cow a kiss goodbye.