DESPITE LEAVING COLE NUMEROUS MESSAGES, Charis received no response from him. She couldn't shake the worry gnawing at her as she imagined him potentially grounded and grappling with his own demons. Austin's return from the Walters' ranch only added to her speculation. She could almost picture Cole's demeanor, confined and brooding in the confines of his home.
Charis couldn't help but wonder what might be going through Cole's mind during this time of silence. Was he reflecting on his actions, regretting his choices, or simply lost in a whirlwind of emotions? She longed to reach out to him, to offer comfort and support, but his unresponsiveness left her feeling helpless.
As she awaited news or any sign of life from Cole, Charis found herself consumed by a sense of unease, hoping against hope that he would soon emerge from the shadows of his solitude.
The day of the rodeo had arrived, a bustling event filled with anticipation and excitement. Alex, with his competitive spirit, was gearing up to compete, ready to showcase his skills in the arena. Meanwhile, the twins, eager to join in the festivities, were en route by bus, looking forward to another day spent together.
However, this time around, Charis, Leah, and James wouldn't be participating in the rodeo. James, deemed too old for bull calf riding and not yet experienced enough for bronco riding, had to sit this one out. As for Charis, the thought of competing after her prolonged absence from the rodeo circuit filled her with a mix of nerves and apprehension. Yet, despite not being in the lineup, they were both excited to be part of the event, cheering on their friends and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the rodeo grounds.
Charis couldn't shake off the nerves that gripped her as she approached her closet. It had been so long since she last set foot on rodeo grounds, and the thought of facing her old competitors after nearly a year filled her with a sense of unease. Would they judge her for her absence? Would they assume she had bailed out, leaving without a word? Would they see her as weak, a coward who couldn't handle the challenges of the rodeo circuit?
These thoughts swirled in Charis's mind as she contemplated the reactions of her peers. Had they heard about the accident that had left her scarred for life? Or had her absence gone unnoticed, overshadowed by the relentless pace of rodeo life? The uncertainty gnawed at her, leaving her feeling vulnerable and exposed.
As she made her way through the clothes, Charis wondered if today would be the day she made a decision about her future in rodeo. Would she have the courage to step back into the arena, to reclaim her place among the riders? And what about Bandit? Would he be her partner in the future, or was it time for her to pursue other paths?
Amidst her internal turmoil, Charis knew she could count on the support of Leah and James, who would undoubtedly be by her side, offering encouragement and guidance throughout the day. Their presence was a source of comfort amidst the uncertainty, reminding her that no matter what happened, she wasn't alone in her journey.
As Charis settled into the quiet of her home, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air. Marilyn's sudden departure to Danny's without so much as a word left Charis feeling somewhat abandoned, unsure of what had transpired between her sister and Cole. Little did she know, Cole was receiving an earful from Marilyn, a conversation that would undoubtedly leave him troubled and introspective.
Charis couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. She had been eager to share with Cole the news of her return to riding, the exhilaration she felt as she once again took to the saddle. But now, with Cole preoccupied with his own worries and dreams seemingly slipping away, she found herself hesitant to burden him with her own happiness.
Instead, Charis retreated into herself, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty. Should she reach out to Cole, and offer him comfort and support in his time of need? Or should she give him space, and allow him to process his emotions without interference?
Lost in her thoughts, Charis wrestled with conflicting emotions, unsure of the best course of action. All she knew was that she longed for the sense of connection and understanding she shared with Cole, and she hoped that in time, they would find their way back to each other, stronger and more resilient than before.
As Charis reflected on her own journey of recovery and compared it to Cole's, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration. It seemed like a futile exercise, comparing their injuries and the subsequent impact on their lives. After all, how could one measure pain and suffering in such concrete terms?
Charis acknowledged that, outwardly, her injuries may have appeared more severe than Cole's. With a metal rod in her leg, she bore a visible reminder of the accident that had altered her life. Yet, beneath the surface, she grappled with her own silent struggles, the constant ache and discomfort that lingered despite her efforts to mask them with medication.
In contrast, Cole wore his pain like a badge of honor, his knee injury serving as a constant reminder of his perceived failure. He sought solace in sharing his struggles with others, yet simultaneously pushed them away, craving both attention and isolation in equal measure.
Charis had grown weary of Cole's self-destructive behavior, his refusal to confront his demons and move forward. She refused to be dragged down by his negativity, determined to focus on her own healing journey and reclaiming her sense of self.
While she empathized with Cole's pain, she knew that she couldn't allow his turmoil to dictate her own path. She would stand strong in the face of adversity, finding strength in her resilience and determination to overcome whatever obstacles lay in her way.
As Charis dressed for the rodeo, she carefully selected each piece of clothing, ensuring she felt both comfortable and confident. Wrangler jeans hugged her legs snugly, a nod to the rugged authenticity of the Western lifestyle she embraced. Slipping into her worn-in boots, she felt a sense of familiarity and grounding, as if each step carried her closer to her roots.
Choosing a white graphic shirt, Charis added a touch of her own personal style to the ensemble. The shirt bore a design that spoke to her love of adventure and freedom, reflecting the spirit of the open road and endless horizons.
With her attire complete, Charis added a finishing touch—a trucker cap perched atop her head, shielding her eyes from the glare of the sun and adding a hint of vintage charm to her look. Sitting on her bed, she glanced at her phone once more, a silent plea for connection and reassurance.
As she waited for her dad to arrive in the truck, Charis slipped on a light jacket and plugged in her earbuds. With the opening chords of "Voodoo Child" by Jimi Hendrix filling her ears, she felt a surge of energy and determination course through her veins. The electrifying guitar riffs seemed to mirror the anticipation building within her, setting the stage for a day of excitement and possibility at the rodeo.
She hadn't bothered to check the chronological order of the events, secretly hoping she had missed Alex's competition. It wasn't that she didn't support him—she did—but she couldn't shake the feeling of discomfort that arose whenever she witnessed his insecurities on full display.
Deep down, Charis knew she was being somewhat childish in her avoidance. After all, Alex's passion for rodeo was genuine, and he deserved her encouragement like anyone else. Yet, she couldn't deny the frustration that simmered within her, a frustration born from his tendency to project his insecurities onto those around him.
It wasn't easy dealing with someone who constantly felt the need to prove themselves, especially when their actions bordered on arrogance. Charis understood the weight of insecurity all too well, but she also recognized the importance of confronting it head-on rather than deflecting it onto others.
Despite the lingering ache in her leg, Charis considered it a small victory. The pain was gradually easing, a reassuring sign that she could manage it. With each passing moment, she felt a renewed sense of determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
A few minutes later, the truck door opened, and Austin settled into the driver's seat. Charis retrieved her earbuds and tucked them away as she prepared for the journey ahead.
"Ready?" Austin's voice broke the silence, his gaze meeting hers in the rearview mirror.
"Yeah," Charis replied softly, her mind preoccupied with finding a distraction among the clutter of the passenger compartment. She rifled through the CDs, searching for something that hadn't been overplayed to the point of annoyance, finally settling on Bruce Springsteen's greatest hits.
Austin arched an eyebrow at her words, expecting a more enthusiastic response considering they were heading to a rodeo. However, he chose not to press the issue, aware of the events of the previous night with the Walters. Born to Run began to fill the cabin as they pulled out of the driveway, the rhythmic beats setting the tone for the journey ahead.
Their next stop would soon be the bus station near Aurelita County, where they would pick up Leah and James. As the miles stretched out before them, Charis braced herself for the day's events, hoping that the music and the company of her siblings would provide a welcome distraction from the uncertainties that lingered in her mind.
The sun had fully risen on the horizon as Austin and Charis pulled up to the bus station in their trusty black Ford Ranger, the hum of the engine filling the air with anticipation. As they watched the twins emerge from the station, their laughter carrying on the breeze, a smile tugged at the corners of their lips.
"Looks like the twins are at it again," Austin remarked with a chuckle, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Charis nodded in agreement, a playful glint in her eye. "Well, what's a road trip without a little sibling rivalry, right?"
As James hopped into the truck and closed the door before Leah's face, Charis couldn't help but laugh at the sight of Leah's indignant huff as she opened the door again, muttering something under her breath before settling into her seat with a pointed shove at James.
"Smooth move, James," Austin teased, his laughter echoing in the confines of the truck. "You might wanna watch your back."
The twins greeted Austin and Charis with enthusiastic hellos, their voices filled with excitement as they launched into a flurry of conversation. As they bantered back and forth, Charis couldn't help but admire their easy camaraderie, the bond between them unbreakable despite their constant teasing.
James's eyes lit up as he caught sight of the Ford Ranger, his enthusiasm palpable. "Man, I love this truck," he said, his voice brimming with excitement.
Austin chuckled knowingly, a twinkle in his eye. "I'm glad you like it, James. But you know, your dad's got a pretty sweet ride back home too. That Ram Heavy Duty of his is a beast."
Charis interjected with a playful smirk. "And here I am, still without my own license. Guess I'll just have to rely on you two for chauffeur duty."
Leah laughed at Charis's remark, her eyes dancing with mirth. "Looks like you're stuck with us for now, Charis. But hey, at least we get to listen to you all's awesome music selection."
"So! Can y'all believe how packed this rodeo is gonna be?" Leah exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.
James nodded eagerly, his grin widening. "Yeah, I heard they've got some top-notch riders lined up."
Charis smiled at their enthusiasm, the energy contagious. "I can't wait to see some barrel racing. It always gets my heart racing."
Austin chuckled, his gaze reflecting pride. "You used to fly around those barrels like a pro."
Charis's smile faltered slightly, memories of her past accomplishments mingling with uncertainty about her future. "Maybe I'll get back into it one day."
Leah nudged her gently, her eyes full of encouragement. "You totally should, Charis. You'd crush it out there."
James nodded enthusiastically, his voice filled with support. "Definitely! And I'll be right there cheering you on, just like old times."
Charis felt a surge of gratitude for their unwavering belief in her, their words lifting her spirits. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot."
Despite her apprehensions and fears of not meeting others' expectations, Charis found solace and courage in her newfound connection with Bandit. The bond she had forged with the horse throughout the day had become a source of strength and comfort, offering her a sense of reassurance amidst her uncertainties.
As she reflected on her experiences, Charis realized that she had developed a genuine affection for Bandit, recognizing the potential for a profound relationship between them. Despite the challenges she faced and the doubts that lingered in her mind, Charis was determined not to let fear dictate her actions. Instead, she resolved to embrace the opportunity to explore this newfound bond, allowing herself to be guided by the connection she felt with Bandit.
With each passing moment, Charis's confidence grew, fueled by the unwavering support of her companions and the undeniable rapport she shared with Bandit. As she prepared to embark on this journey of discovery, Charis knew that she was ready to embrace whatever the future held, confident in the strength of the bond she had forged with Bandit.
As they cruised down the highway, the strains of Bruce Springsteen filled the air, the familiar melodies serving as the soundtrack to their journey. And as they arrived at the fully packed rodeo, Charis couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement coursing through her veins, the promise of adventure hanging tantalizingly close. As they navigated the remnants of leftover mud from previous rainy nights, searching for a place to park, Charis couldn't help but feel grateful for the company of her friends and family.
As they wandered through the bustling rodeo grounds, the excitement of the bronc riding competition surrounded them like a tangible energy. Charis couldn't help but be drawn to the fierce determination etched on the faces of the competitors, both men and women alike, as they prepared to take on the challenge of riding untamed broncos.
Leah and James's commentary provided a lively soundtrack to the spectacle, their witty remarks and enthusiastic observations adding to the atmosphere of the event. Charis found herself laughing along with them, sharing in their excitement as they cheered on their favorite riders.
Meanwhile, Austin's phone rang, interrupting the festivities. With a nod of acknowledgment, he excused himself and walked a few steps away to take the call, his expression focused as he listened intently to the voice on the other end of the line.
As Charis watched him go, she couldn't help but feel a pang of curiosity about the nature of the call. But she pushed the thought aside, choosing instead to immerse herself in the excitement of the rodeo, feeling content in the company, and the thrill of the competition unfolding before them.
After concluding his call, Austin rejoined Charis, Leah, and James with a determined look in his eye.
"Alright, folks," he began, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Alex is up after three more competitors. After his ride, we'll head over to watch the barrel racing together. Then, we'll grab a bite to eat."
Leah's eyes sparkled with anticipation, her enthusiasm matching Austin's. "Sounds like a plan. I can't wait to see Alex in action."
James nodded eagerly, his grin widening. "Yeah, and I'm starving! I heard they've got some good food vendors here."
As they made their way towards the arena, the lively commentary from the speakers grew louder, echoing across the bustling rodeo grounds. Charis, Leah, James, and Austin exchanged excited glances as they approached, the anticipation mounting with each step.
The familiar figures of Marilyn, Danny, Nathan, Skylar, Katherine, and George came into view, standing together near the edge of the arena. Marilyn's blonde hair caught the sunlight as she cheered enthusiastically, while Danny's broad grin mirrored her excitement. Nathan, Skylar, and Katherine leaned in close, their eyes fixed on the action unfolding before them, while George stood tall, a sense of pride evident in his stance.
Leah and James eagerly greeted Marilyn and exchanged introductions with Danny and Nathan, their faces bright with excitement. Katherine and George, already acquainted with the twins, welcomed them warmly into the fold.
Katherine enveloped Charis in a hug, her presence a comforting reassurance amid the bustling atmosphere of the rodeo grounds. Charis's surprise was evident when Katherine mentioned that Cole was assisting Alex with his horse, a revelation that left her momentarily speechless. Katherine shared a knowing look with Charis, silently acknowledging the unexpected turn of events that had led to Cole's involvement.
George, ever genial, complimented Charis on her cap, a gesture that elicited a laugh from her as she thanked him. With a light-hearted exchange, Charis bid farewell and wandered off between the gates, her mind abuzz with anticipation for the day's events.
Charis watched as Alex made his way towards the judges, a mix of nerves and determination evident in his stride. As she turned her attention back to the road, she heard the familiar crunch of gravel underfoot, signaling someone's approach. Her heart skipped a beat as Cole's blonde hair came into view, obscured momentarily as he donned a trucker cap. A soft smile tugged at Charis's lips, but it faltered when she caught the troubled expression on his face.
"Hey," she greeted softly, her voice laced with a hint of longing.
"Hey, didn't expect you," Cole replied, his gaze meeting hers with a mixture of surprise and uncertainty.
Charis felt a pang of sadness at his words, but she pushed it aside, focusing instead on the connection they shared. "You didn't?" she questioned gently, her eyes searching his for any sign of understanding.
"I did," Cole confessed, his voice filled with vulnerability.
Charis reached out instinctively, her fingers brushing against his arm in a gesture of comfort. "Well, I was hoping yesterday that I would be able to tell you everything about my day, but then Danny called me..."
She frequently shifted her weight from one leg to the other, a subtle attempt to alleviate the pain and find a more comfortable position. Each movement was a delicate balance between managing the discomfort and maintaining her stability.
"Sorry for ruining your night," Cole interjected, his tone tinged with regret.
Charis shook her head, her heart aching for him. "Cole, stop. You didn't ruin it. You may have put a dent in your family's night, but it's family, and they have forgiven you. You're too hard on yourself."
Cole's eyes softened at her words, a flicker of gratitude shining in their depths. "Tell me about your day," he requested softly, his voice filled with a longing to reconnect.
Charis felt a rush of affection for him, her heart swelling with love. Taking a deep breath, she began to recount her day, sharing every detail with him, from the early morning hours to their visit to the ranch upstate, and finally, about the unexpected offer of Bandit for racing. As she spoke, she felt Cole's presence beside her, his warmth enveloping her in a sense of security and belonging.
"I'm sorry I didn't call you back. I left my phone in the car this morning, and I didn't have time to walk back," Cole apologized sincerely, his gaze locking with hers.
"And Charis. I'm sorry if I made you feel like you couldn't tell me anything. If it makes you feel better, I argued with Jackie yesterday," Cole admitted, her voice filled with tenderness.
Charis's lips curved into a small smile at her words, a sense of relief washing over her. "It does, actually. What did you fight about?" she inquired, her curiosity tinged with amusement.
Cole shrugged, a playful twinkle in his eye. "Not important. Let's go watch this excuse of a brother," he suggested, his hand reaching out to intertwine with hers as he led her towards the arena, the weight of their dreams and shared history and unspoken emotions lingering in the air between them.
Cole and Charis, their footsteps synchronized in the bustling atmosphere of the rodeo grounds. As they approached their families, they instinctively paused a few feet away, finding a secluded spot where they could converse without the prying ears of others nearby. Standing within earshot but still maintaining a sense of privacy, they leaned in slightly, their voices lowered to ensure their conversation remained between them.
Charis fidgeted nervously as she and Cole stood together, the topic of her returning to barrel racing weighing heavily on her mind. She chewed on her lower lip, uncertainty clouding her thoughts as she considered the potential risks involved.
"I just don't know if I should do it," Charis admitted, her voice tinged with apprehension.
Cole reached out to gently squeeze her hand, his gaze filled with understanding. "I get it, Charis. It's a big decision, and your health comes first." He looked at her knowingly, thinking about her nutrition.
Charis nodded, grateful for his support but the last part had gone over her head. "Exactly. I mean, what if I hurt my leg again? What if I make it worse?"
Cole tilted his head, his expression thoughtful. "Have you talked to your doctor about it?"
Charis's brow furrowed in thought. "Not yet, but maybe I should. I just don't want to do anything that could set back my recovery."
Cole nodded in agreement. "Even if you decide not to barrel race, there are plenty of other ways to stay involved in the rodeo scene."
Cole smiled, his gaze softening with affection. "You have so much to offer, Charis, no matter what you decide."
Charis leaned into him, grateful for his unwavering support. "Thank you."
Cole wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. "We'll figure this out together, okay?"
Charis nodded, a sense of relief washing over her. With Cole by her side, she knew she could navigate whatever challenges lay ahead, whether it was getting back into barrel racing or finding a new path that was better suited to her needs.
The next day, the atmosphere at the rodeo grounds buzzed with excitement once again as Charis, Marilyn, and Danny returned. Jackie was notably absent, attending an interview elsewhere, while Danny and Marilyn found themselves energetically bouncing in a corner, their elation palpable. Cole and Charis exchanged bemused glances at their siblings' exuberance, though they couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity.
As they discussed plans for the day, Cole suggested checking out the barrel riders after Alex's event. His arm draped casually around Charis's waist, drawing her closer as they navigated the bustling crowds. Charis nodded in agreement, her mind already envisioning the day's activities.
They mingled with the crowd, Cole's arm instinctively found its place around Charis's waist, a comforting gesture amidst the bustling atmosphere. His suggestion to explore the barrel riders' event resonated with Charis, who nodded in agreement, her gaze flickering toward Alex's impending performance.
"Sure, after Alex finishes," Charis affirmed, her voice carrying a note of anticipation.
With their plans set, Cole and Charis strolled towards Danny and Marilyn, their footsteps echoing against the lively backdrop of the rodeo grounds. As they approached their siblings, Charis couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie and warmth in their shared company.
"Danny got accepted to Julliard's summer program!" Marilyn exclaimed, her voice ringing with pride.
Charis's eyes widened in surprise, a surge of excitement coursing through her. "Danny, what the fuck! That's incredible!" she exclaimed, pulling him into a tight hug.
Charis pondered over Cole's decision not to disclose Danny's acceptance to Julliard right away. She considered the possibility that Danny might have wanted Marilyn to be the first to know, perhaps as a gesture of respect for their close bond. Despite not being the initial recipient of the news, Charis understood the significance of the moment for Danny and Marilyn, recognizing the importance of allowing them to share their joy without interference.
Ultimately, Charis chose to focus on the happiness of her friends, finding contentment in knowing that Danny's acceptance to Julliard was a cause for celebration, regardless of who shared the news first. Marilyn nodded eagerly, her smile radiant. "Yep! It's going to be amazing having him close!"
"You're going to New York?" Cole asked, a hint of surprise in his tone. Marilyn nodded, hugging Danny.
"Sarah Lawrence," Charis nodded. She realized she had forgotten to tell him.
As they continued to chat about the exciting news, they made their way to watch Alex's ride. Charis and Cole stood side by side, their arms intertwined as they cheered Alex on. But just as everything seemed to be going perfectly, disaster struck.
"His rein broke," Charis gasped, her heart sinking as she watched Alex struggle to regain control of his horse. Cole squeezed her hand reassuringly.
Together, they watched anxiously as Alex fought to maintain his balance, the crowd holding its breath in anticipation. And as Alex finally brought the horse under control, a wave of relief washed over the group, their cheers filling the air as they celebrated his resilience and determination. Cole excused himself to follow after him.
As he rejoined Charis, his countenance betrayed a complex blend of emotions—relief, happiness, and a hint of frustration. Sensing his need for space, Charis refrained from probing further, instead offering her assistance in tidying up the equipment. However, Cole gently declined, indicating that he and Alex would handle the task themselves, suggesting they reconvene at the barrel racing event later.
Respecting his choice, Charis nodded in understanding, allowing Cole the time and space he needed to process whatever had transpired during his interaction with Alex. With a silent understanding passing between them, Charis watched as Cole and Alex set to work, their camaraderie evident despite the lingering tension. And with a sense of anticipation tinged with curiosity, Charis turned her focus towards the upcoming barrel racing competition, eager to immerse herself in the lively atmosphere of the rodeo once more.
As Charis ventured closer to the bustling arena her eyes fell upon a familiar face in the arena on a horse. It was Stacy, a figure from Charis's past with whom she had shared a competitive history. Despite their previous rivalry, Charis couldn't deny a twinge of curiosity and perhaps a hint of apprehension at the sight of Stacy astride her horse.
Taking a deep breath to steel herself, Charis continued her approach, her steps measured and cautious. As she drew nearer to the group, she recognized other riders she had encountered in past competitions, their presence adding to the mix of emotions swirling within her. With a flicker of uncertainty mingled with determination, Charis pressed on, ready to confront whatever memories and challenges awaited her in this familiar yet unfamiliar setting.
When Charis approached the area where some of her old acquaintances Beau, Caroline, and Lauren were gearing up, she felt a familiar pang of apprehension. These were the people she used to compete against, including Stacy, whom she had a history with. But she pushed aside her unease, determined to face them with confidence.
"Charis? Long time no see," Beau greeted with a friendly smile.
Charis returned the smile, albeit a bit hesitantly. "Yeah, it's been a while."
Caroline chimed in, her tone curious. "We were wondering why you left. You were one of the best riders here."
Charis took a moment to collect her thoughts before replying. "It's a long story, but I had an accident on horseback and I hurt my leg. I lost Malory too. I needed some time to focus on other things."
Lauren nodded in understanding. "Well, it's good to have you here. Are you planning to start competing again?"
Charis hesitated before answering. "I'm not sure yet. I'm just here to see how things go. Maybe I'll ease back into it."
Just then, Stacy returned from the arena, her expression guarded as she overheard their conversation. "Ease back into it, huh?" she remarked, her tone laced with skepticism.
Charis met Stacy's gaze evenly, refusing to be intimidated. "Yeah, maybe. We'll see."
Stacy's eyes narrowed slightly, but before she could say anything further, Caroline interjected with a cheerful tone. "Well, whatever you decide, it's good to have you back, Charis. We've missed having some real competition around here."
Charis smiled gratefully at Caroline's words, feeling a sense of camaraderie despite the lingering tension. As she turned her attention back to tacking up her horse, she couldn't help but feel a surge of determination. Whether she decided to compete again or not, one thing was certain – she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As Charis leaned against the railing, watching the riders prepare for their runs, Cole joined her, his presence a comforting anchor amidst the whirlwind of emotions swirling within her.
"You know, I never really liked Stacy," Charis confessed quietly, her gaze fixed on the arena.
Cole nodded in understanding. "Yeah, I remember. But you've always been able to handle tough competition."
Charis managed a small smile, grateful for his support. "Thanks. It means a lot."
As they continued to watch, Cole's arm found its way around Charis's shoulders, offering silent reassurance. "Hey, I was thinking we could drive the trailer back home after this and then take my truck. I finally fixed it."
Charis's eyes lit up with pride and admiration. "That's amazing."
With a smile, Cole leaned in closer. "Yeah, I've been working on it for a while now."
Despite the haunting memories of Aster's tragic fate, Charis resolved not to let fear govern her decisions. She couldn't shake the sense of foreboding that lingered in her mind, a reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate.
However, Charis was determined not to be paralyzed by fear. She recognized that allowing her past trauma to dictate her present actions would only hold her back from moving forward. With a deep breath and a firm resolve, she pushed aside her apprehensions and focused on the arena before her.
As they stood together, watching the riders fly around the arena, Charis couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the love and support Cole had always shown her. And as they prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead, she knew that with him by her side, she could overcome anything.