3

Earning a Woman's Trust

Normal POV

Trenton turned around to see two mountain lions behind him. He looked for a place to put Kai but there wasn't a single safe place around as the stable door was shut. Trenton grabbed the back of Kai's shirt the best he could and placed the baby in between a plant pot and the steps that led to the front door. Poor little Kai didn't know what to do when one lion came forward but Trenton reared up and slammed his hooves down making the cat hiss and back off slightly but the other one was smarter. It tried leaping for Trenton but he turned around and kicked it hard. The cat flew right into the cornfield but the other one attacked again only just missing Trenton's legs. Trenton charged at the cat and it ran a mile. Before the second cat that went into the cornfield could attack Kai Trenton ran right over and swung his head causing the cat to fly again but it landed not far from him this time. Trenton snorted several times and blew a couple of raspberries at the cats. He looked behind him to see Kai was absolutely terrified.

Trenton nuzzled the boy gently not knowing the cats were devising a plan to kill them. Kai petted Trenton's nose when he spotted one of the cats. "Look. Kitty." At those words Trenton turned around just as the bigger cat of the two leaped on his back causing him to run leaving Kai unshielded. Before the smaller cat could attack the boy Trenton trampled over it whilst trying to get the cat off his back. Ray walked outside and he had a shock to see Trenton fighting the cats. Trenton soon got the better of his attacker and reared up before deliberately falling onto his side. Trenton got up but the lion didn't. Clare was soon at Ray's side and she panicked when she couldn't find her son. "Kai?!" "Mama!"

Trenton shooed the one cat out of the grounds but the other was persistent and Trenton was the same. The cat tried to strike at Kai but Trenton interfered and slapped the cat with his head. Yet again Trenton reared up but this time he swung his legs before slamming them down. The lion still didn't back off. Instead of going for Trenton's legs the cat lunged at his neck and clung on. Trenton had no idea what to do when the cat had his neck in a death grip. The adults watched in horror as did Kai. Trenton soon started to lose energy and fell to his knees. "Trenton!" Ray and Clare turned to see Chesney at the door. Chesney tried to run out to help his friend but Ray stopped him. "Let me go Ray!" "No. That lion will have you for lunch. Trenton! Bite its ear!" Trenton looked at Kai with his weak and tired eyes. He tried Ray's suggestion and tried biting the lion's ear. To his surprise it worked and the cat let his throat go whilst roaring at him before launching one final attack. Trenton got back onto his shaky thin legs and booted the cat before stomping on its chest. A sickening crack filled the yard.

Trenton fell to the floor heavily and Kai plodded right over to him. Clare was relieved to see her baby boy was alright. Chesney rushed over to Trenton and lifted his head gently. "Trenton. You are one brave horse. You know that? You could've been killed. But ya saved my brother. I'm proud of you." Trenton just let out one small neigh and nudged Chesney's ankle. Trenton looked beside him to see Kai was there reaching out to him. Trenton extended his neck as much as he could and Kai's hand only just brushed his nose. Ray soon walked over to the trio and knelt down to inspect the damage. "Well Chesney. The bad news is, the pair of you ain't fit to race. But. The good news is that Trenton will recover in no time with my help. I wanna make up for not being able to save yer dad." "Thanks Ray. Ya hear that Trenton?" The said horse just nodded weakly at that when Kai got closer to him.

Trenton POV

I watched as my little boy got closer to me. He was still white with fear. I was able to lie on my stomach with the help of Ray and Chesney. When Kai's hands met my chest I placed my head on his back. I noticed Clare was rather worried and shocked that I had done such a thing as fight off two mountain lions. It would've been so much easier to get Ray to shoot them. But my boy was at stake so I took action and fought for his life. Clare soon found the courage to walk over to me but she stopped at least five inches away. I noticed Sophie was by the door as she looked at the dead lion in total shock before she noticed me. "Trenton! What happened Chesney?" "He fought a lion." "Not one. Two lions. He saved Kai's life but almost lost his own." "Oh. You stupid thing. Look at the state of you." "He'll be okay. The wounds aren't serious enough to kill him. I can treat his injuries easily." "Thanks Ray. Come on Kai." "Me stay. Trent good boy." 'Thanks my lad. Just what I need to hear. It's getting dark. So soon. I've only been here a few hours.'

I looked up at the sky as darkness was starting to choke the warmth of daylight. Clare found the courage to kneel beside me and place a hand to my face. "Thank you Trenton. You saved my baby. I was wrong about you. Will you accept my apology for being so stuck up?" I looked at Clare in shock. She had never asked anyone but me to forgive her in the past. I nodded the best I could at her before I was helped up by my kids. "Easy Trenton. Come on boy. Easy does it." I walked in small painful steps as Sophie and Chesney led me to the stable. I stopped suddenly before I heard footsteps. I looked to see my old enemy walking up to the house. That was when anger took over me. I pawed the ground three times and Brooklyn noticed. "Nice horse." "Easy boy. No Trenton. Come on. You must rest. Trenton!"

The kids didn't know what to do when I charged at Brooklyn. He ran a mile and dived into the house but I wasn't about to just let him in 'MY' house. Just as I was near the door Chesney stood in my way. 'Move Chesney. You wanted him out.' "No Trenton. I can't let you hurt him. I know you heard I want him out. But I'll do it my way boy. I do appreciate your help. But you have to rest boy. So we can show Bruce and his cronies what for. Please Trenton. Listen to me." 'I'm listening. Kids these days. Hey.' I jumped a little when a flag was waved in my face. Chesney just laughed. 'So. You think that's funny. We'll see about that.' I walked up to Chesney and he looked at me. I noticed he had the flag in his hands. I bent my head down and he patted my nose but I decided to get revenge and grab the flag. "Trenton! Get back here with that!" I ran around the cornfield with Chesney following close behind. I was only cantering and he couldn't keep up. I noticed that Chesney wasn't behind me after half way so I stopped and turned back to find he had tripped over a tree root.

I watched as Chesney tried to stand but he failed miserably each time. I decided enough was enough and walked over to him. I put the flag down and nuzzled Chesney's face but he didn't get the message to grab my mane. "What is it Trenton? You want me to scratch yer neck?" 'No. Grab my mane you silly lad. Oh well. May as well bow down and carry him.' In answer to Chesney's question I bent down and he clambered onto my back being careful of my cut shoulders. I picked the flag up and cantered back around to the house. Once I was outside the front door Clare took Chesney inside. "Thanks old chap. I know you're trying to tell them something. It isn't easy I know. Just keep trying. Come on. I'll help ya settle down." 'What? Wait. I can't leave my wife with Brooklyn. He'll hurt her. Hey. Hand off haunches. Man he's persistent.' "What's the matter Trenton? You cold?" 'No. I wanna be with my wife. I missed her. Just let me in the damn house.' "You are not going inside though. I'll go get Chesney for you. You'll need company."

I watched as Ray jogged back to the house. He read my mind. He knows I'm trying to tell them who I really am. I have to try something else. Maybe Franny can help. Nah. She can't understand horse language. Damn it. They need a horse whisperer. Because if they don't get one I'll have to go to drastic measures by picking the carrots or whatever. Ray soon returned with Chesney by his side. "Hey boy. In ya go. I know you want to go inside the house but yer not allowed. Give ma some time. Let her settle down with having ya here. In the mean time. I'll be stayin' with ya to help you settle in." 'Just get me a mattress. And you'll freeze to death. I can't let you sleep in there.' Before Chesney could walk into the stable I stopped him. He was confused when I started to push him back to the house. "Trenton. Stop that. I'll be fine. I've slept in there before. Ray." "Yes." "Go and fetch my mattress and the spare one under my bed. I think that's what Trenton is trying to tell me." "I'll be right back Chesney." Yet again Ray went back into the house.

Chesney was starting to pick up my signals it was just getting the message through that I'm his father. He thinks it so he has to know he's right. I just need to prove it to him. I'll take him to school. I'll help him with his chores on the farm. Maybe then he'll understand. Ray soon returned with the other boy carrying the requested items. "Here we go Chesney. Where do you want them putting?" "Err. Trenton. What do you think boy?" How would I know? I'm a horse. Kids. I walked into the stable and the others followed me before putting the mattresses down. "Sleep well Chesney." "You too Ray. Come on Trenton." As I was told I laid my battered body down on one mattress and Chesney lay on the other. He huddled right up to me before covering the pair of us with a huge red blanket. "Sleep well Trenton. My friend." 'I'm your dad god damn it. You can see it. Just say the friggin word already. I miss it.'

The next morning I woke up to find Chesney was gone. My shoulders didn't hurt as much but my neck hurt. It was painful just to lift my head. I calmed down when Chesney limped in with two buckets. Kai was right behind him pulling something. It looked like a small cart of carrots. I smiled slightly when both my boys reached me. "Hey Trenton. We brought ya breakfast. Come here Kai. You need a hand with that?" "No. I fine. Trent." "That's right. Wanna feed him?" "Yeah." 'Such spirit. The spirit I used to have at his age. Maybe Kai can help me with the message. I'll have to try.' I watched as Chesney handed Kai a carrot and led him towards me gently when Sophie and the other lad walked in. "Hey Trenton. You look better already boy." "So you were telling the truth. He put up a good fight." "Ernest. Of course he did. He did it for Kai. If it weren't for Trenton. He'd be dead." "Well. You look like you'd be a good racer. I can help you train him. My dad works for that witch at the racetrack." "Thanks Ernest." You're forgetting someone here. Starving horse! Kids are so slow.

I leaned forward the best I could and nudged Kai's little chubby hand. He smiled and petted me as always. I noticed he was slightly shaking. He must've been cold. I grabbed the blanket and covered him with it before pulling the child close to my chest. He was grateful and he held me in return. "He sure loves yer brother." "He loves us all apart from Brooklyn." The said man soon walked in with a bucket. He went right past me and into a stall next door. That was when I realized the cow was there. I snorted slightly and the others just laughed. I had forgotten all about the stupid carrot that Kai held until he held it up to me. I was a little hesitant but I eventually took it and tickled him with the leaves. He fell right on his backside laughing. He soon caught the leaves and pulled on them. I pulled the leaves upward gently so Kai could get back on his little feet. Brooklyn peered around the corner as I stood up slowly, with Chesney's help. Clare soon entered with a first aid kit. She was smiling right at me. "Hey Brooklyn." "Hey baby." 'No man calls my wife their baby but me.'

I watched as Brooklyn walked past. Chesney took the bucket of milk from him and walked out of the stable. I tried to stay calm but my temper was rising greatly. "Hey big guy. I guess we got off on the wrong foot." I pawed at the ground and Brooklyn panicked. Before I could charge at him Sophie held me back. Brooklyn flinched. "Just go Brooklyn. He doesn't like you so face it." "Less of your mouth young lady." I decided enough was enough. He was on my territory so he was going to pay for it. I slammed my right foot down and Brooklyn never got the message. Yet again I slammed my foot down but he didn't budge. I reared up slightly and forced my legs down scaring Kai slightly. I heard him yelp slightly in fright so I calmed down and nuzzled his face gently. Clare came running and picked him up. She gave me such a face. "Mom. He doesn't like the idea of Brooklyn standing there." "Brooklyn. You'd better leave. You're upsetting Trenton causing him to upset my baby." "I was only being nice to him." 'That is it.'

Normal POV

Trenton soon decided he'd had enough and snorted several times. Brooklyn soon got the message and hurried out of the stable. Sophie smiled and patted Trenton's neck gently before stroking it. "Good boy. This is your turf not his. Right boy?" In response Trenton nodded the best he could and nuzzled Sophie gently when the sound of a car engine could be heard. Clare went outside and noticed a family sedan sitting out near the fence. Ray walked out of the house and his face lit up. "Hey Tyson! Come on in!" Clare was confused when the car started to move slowly towards her. Trenton came out and the car stopped kicking up a lot of dust causing Kai to cringe. Tyson soon emerged with shock evident on his face. "Hi Clare." "Tyson. Why are you here? Same as Ray? Payin' respects to my dead husband?" "I thought I'd come visit. What is with the black horse?" "Oh. This guy?" "Uh huh." "He's Chesney's creature companion. He saved lil' Kai's life yesterday. You should've seen him."

Two other people soon emerged from the car. One was Hilary and the other was a girl with long midnight blue hair and ruby eyes. "Hey Ray." "Hilary. Good to see you again." "Why are you here?" "I only came to pay my respects yesterday and err. Clare invited me and my kids to stay. I gladly accepted. Besides. This guy needs medical help. He's suffered some injury after yesterday's fight with those cats." "What kind of cat?" "Cougar." "Mountain lions?" "And who is that fine young lady?" "My fifteen year old daughter Hailey." "A pleasure. Come here Trenton. Let's get you fixed up. Oh and a word of warning. Brooklyn's in the house." "Why?" "He offered to move in with me an' the kids three years ago. Chesney's trying to get rid of him." "Well it ain't workin'." The group looked to see Brooklyn was walking towards Clare. Trenton pawed at the ground and Brooklyn stopped in his tracks. Trenton turned to face Brooklyn fully and Brooklyn ran for his life when Trenton charged at him. "And Trenton hates him." "Good on him." "Come on in. I'll get ya'll a drink." "Thanks. Come on you pair. I'll get the baby."

Trenton POV

My ears perked up at that. I looked to see Tyson was getting something out of the car. Hilary walked right up to me and stroked my face. "Such a pretty boy. How old is he?" "About three I'd say Hilary. How you been for three years?" "Well. I had another child two years ago. Aw. He's so sweet. Hey little guy. Just like his dad then." "Yeah. I gave him his dad's name in respect. He's lucky that Trenton was around yesterday." That was when Hilary looked into my eyes. I felt safe around her. "He has…Kai's eyes Clare." "We have found it kinda strange for a horse to have amethyst eyes. But he really loves the kids. He also stuck up for Chesney yesterday." "How?" "This lad was picking on him so Trenton took action and charged. The boy and his pack soon fled. He's challenged Chesney and Trenton to a race but they are not fit. I won't allow Chesney to run anyway. After his father." 'Oh stop fussing woman.'

Normal POV

Tyson soon walked over with a baby boy in his arms. He had Hilary's hair with Tyson's old blue eyes. Trenton walked right over to Tyson and he held the child close. "It's alright Tyson. He won't hurt the baby. He loves kids." "Are you sure?" "Yeah. He saved my baby yesterday." "Okay." Tyson soon relaxed and Trenton nudged him before looking at the baby. He nuzzled the child gently and it laughed in happiness. Tyson just smiled and petted Trenton's nose. "So you are friendly. Come on boy." At Tyson's words Trenton pinched his hat. "Hey! Give me back my hat!" "He likes playing Tyson. Don't worry." "Typical. I suppose you'll want my beyblade next." Trenton shook his head at that but he regretted it as a sharp pain ran up to his head. Trenton dropped the cap before falling to his knees. Chesney was at his side like a shot. "Trenton. Are you okay boy? That cut on yer neck is really bad. Come on." Chesney tried to help Trenton to stand but Trenton wouldn't get up. Ray walked over gently and inspected the wound.

Chesney just watched as Ray observed the teeth marks on Trenton's neck. "Bad news Chesney. It looks like the cat hit a nerve in Trenton's neck. He mustn't shake his head or fling it up too much. That goes for stretching too." "Okay. Will he be alright?" "Yes. The nerve will heal in time with my help. Okay big guy." Clare handed Ray the medi kit and he grabbed several items. Chesney comforted Trenton as best he could. Tyson and the others just watched when another car pulled up. Clare pulled such a face. It was Tanya from the racetrack. "Hello Clare." "Tanya." "What happened to this hideous thing?" "He saved my baby yesterday from two cougars. That's what. And he ain't hideous." "Such a pity. Backing out of a race." "I never backed out! I'm just not in the right condition you witch!" "Chesney!" "I know the way you treated my father! He was the best guy there! Why do you think your horses always won?!" "You just mind your mouth boy." "Or else?! You'll have my throat slit?!"

Trenton POV

I could easily tell Chesney was getting stressed out so I nudged his face gently but he slapped me. I snorted at that and tried again. "Stop it Trenton." 'Temper, temper. We'll show her what for. Once Ray's done with my neck.' After two more minutes I could feel a bandage around the cut on my throat. It stung like hell too. "Easy boy. The cream will help that nerve in your neck to heal. If not then your running days are done for." "But." "I'm sorry Chesney. Unless Trenton makes a full recovery he won't be able to run like he could before. His shoulders will be fine. It's just his neck." I listened quietly to Ray trying to calm Chesney down. Tanya looked at me with disgust. I decided I'd had enough. She was also giving Chesney a dirty look. I stood shakily when Bruce and his mob arrived. "Well, well, well. If it isn't the little drop out." "Why you!" Chesney went to go for Bruce but I stopped him. Bruce just laughed at that but I snorted and he soon shut up. I walked forward slowly and Blitzen backed off in fear. "Easy Blitzen. He can't touch us here." 'Oh I can. Just wait and see. Ah. My neck is killing me.'

Normal POV

The others just watched as Trenton walked towards the group when a girl with silver hair and purple eyes arrived on a chestnut horse that had a thin blaze marking on the face. Its back right leg was white at the bottom near the hoof. Bruce recognized her right away. "Carla. What are you doing here?" "Well it definitely isn't picking on injured people. Just give Chesney a break. Walk on Ginger." The stated horse walked forward and Trenton never took his eyes off her making Blitzen rather angry. He snorted several times and Bruce tried to calm him down. "Easy boy. He wouldn't dare." "Shut it Bruce." The girl known as Carla jumped down from the saddle and helped Chesney up with a smile on her face. Chesney accepted the offer and let Carla help him to stand.

Bruce cleared right off and Trenton snorted. Ginger started walking towards him and he backed away. "Easy boy. She won't hurt you. What happened to his neck Chesney?" "He err. Fought two mountain lions yesterday. But he saved my baby brother in the process almost losing his life." "You brave boy. He's beautiful." "Well the other two don't seem to think so." "Not all beautiful horses are winners. Some are hideous. But I think this guy can be a winner. What's his name?" "Trenton." "Good strong name." "Carla." "Mother. Just go away. Leave Chesney and his family alone. They have done nothing wrong to us to deserve this treatment." "Well that boy almost hurt yer brother." "He deserved it." With no other words Tanya left the farm and Clare just smiled. "Thanks Carla." "No problem Clare. Just here to help. I heard my brother challenged you. He was bragging how he could beat you blindfolded. A load of nonsense in my eyes Chesney. You have talent. I can feel it. He should recover pretty soon."

Kai soon waddled up to Carla and pulled on her leg. "Hey little guy. This the one Trenton saved?" "Yep. My baby brother. Just like our dad too. He's curious." "Curiosity always killed the cat." "But generosity brought it back." "Nice rhyme. Down ye go. Heavy little devil." Kai huddled up to Trenton and he looked down. Trenton smiled slightly at the face Kai was pulling at him. He nuzzled the boy when he felt something pulling his tail. Trenton looked to see a dog was trying to catch it. Tyson ran right over to it. "Hey. You dumb dog. Sorry Trenton. Bad Diesel. Bad boy." "I see you brought the dog." "Couldn't leave him behind." "He's more than welcome. As long as he leaves ours alone." "You got a dog?" "Yep. Duchess. Here girl." At Clare's call, a white Alsatian walked out and sat beside her. Diesel's face lit right up. "No boy. Stay. He'll calm down soon enough." "Good to hear. Come on you. Back to bed." Ray and Chesney tried to lead Trenton back into the stable but he wouldn't budge. His eyes were locked with Ginger's. "He's in love." "No." "Yep."

A loud bang was soon heard. It made both horses panic but Chesney made sure Trenton didn't fling his head up. "Easy boy. Bloody fox hunters." "That ain't fox hunters. I know that gun a mile away." "Who is it Carla?" "My step dad." "Well your step dad can stop shootin'." "He's shootin' pigeons again. Cruel man. Shootin' birds just to put them in a pie." "He wouldn't dare shoot our birds." "He ain't after chickens." "Come on you two." "Do you think it wise to leave Ginger with Trenton?" "They'll be fine. Come on Trenton. Time for you to rest big boy." Chesney tried leading Trenton back to the stable but he still didn't budge. Carla started to lead Ginger to the doors and Trenton followed. "Don't go getting any ideas boy. I mean it." Trenton just snorted at Chesney's words. The gunshot filled the air again and Trenton reared up flinging his legs at the same time. "Easy boy! Come on. Calm down. He can't hurt you." At those words Trenton calmed down little by little.

Tyson and Hilary couldn't believe their eyes when Chesney pulled Trenton into a hug. To their surprise Trenton accepted it. Chesney stroked his neck gently and Ginger walked up to Carla. "Easy girl. He won't bite. Trust me. I know." At those words Rin walked out. She had a surprise to see Tyson. "Uncle Tyson?" "Hey Rin. How ya been girl?" "Not bad. Keeping the other two in order after mom left." "Hey. If Brooklyn gets out. We're moving in. For the better." "Eh?" "Look Tyson. I made a mistake lettin' Brooklyn move in. He an' the kids don't get along anymore." "Oh." "Like I said. Chesney is tryin' to drive him out. Now Trenton's with us. He might get the message. How are the others?" "They'll be here soon Clare. Kenny will probably arrive before Max. It sure doesn't feel right without Kai here though." "I know. It feels weird not waking up next to him in mornings." "I don't blame you Clare." Brooklyn soon walked through the gate and Trenton stopped dead. Chesney just let the bridle go.

Brooklyn knew what was coming but he still headed for the house. Trenton just waited and waited for him to make a bad move on Clare. "Hello dear." "Go sling Brooklyn." "Hey. Are you alright?" "Just. Get out of my sight. You've already done enough today." "What?" "Leaving me an' the kids to do all the work." At hearing that Trenton wasn't amused. He pawed at the ground and Brooklyn heard it. He turned slightly to see anger on Trenton's face. "Nice horse." "If I were you Brooklyn. I would get ready to run." As said Brooklyn got ready to sprint off but Trenton had the advantage of four legs. Trenton walked forwards slowly just as Sophie walked out making Brooklyn jump. "Trenton. Get him outta here." As ordered by Chesney Trenton walked towards Brooklyn and he stood in fear but it didn't show until Trenton snorted and blew a few raspberries. "Oh no. Not again." Brooklyn started jogging but Trenton ran after him and he darted out the gate. Trenton stopped by the gate and reared up in a warning fashion. Neighing and blowing raspberries at the man.

Tyson and Hilary just laughed at Brooklyn and so did their daughter. Rin was also laughing along with everyone else. "That is the best ever. Good one Trenton. You keep up the good work." "Well we'll see how he reacts to Max later. And Kenny." As if guessing his name was spoken Kenny arrived on foot with Mariam oddly enough. Two teens were with them. One had Kenny's hair and Mariam's eyes but the other had Mariam's hair and blue eyes that they guessed were from Kenny. Mariam and Kenny froze when they spotted Trenton but the kids walked up to him with ease. The one with Kenny's hair was a boy and the other was a girl. "Hey big fella." "Hey Tyson!" "Kenny! Why are you walking man?!" "Car broke down half way here!" When Trenton spotted Kenny he was happy as ever. He walked over to him slowly and nudged his face. "Hey boy. Okay. You have Kai's eyes. This is bizarre." "It sure is Kenny. Who is this Clare?" "Chesney's new friend Trenton." "Oh. He's a handsome one. Hey boy."

Chesney just watched at all the fuss his horse was getting so he picked his brother up. "Hey Kai. We may just be freed from Brooklyn if Trenton keeps this up." "Yeah. That good?" "Yes. Then Uncle Ray will move in. We'll be happier with him. Come on Trenton!" The said horse turned and trotted towards Chesney with his tail in the hair and his head arched. "Good boy. Keep up the good work. Come on. Time for you to rest that neck of yours." Kenny and his small family walked up to Clare after catching their breath. As predicted Max arrived with Mathilda. Two kids were with them and one baby that had yellowish pink hair but the child was sleeping. The other two were like the parents. The girl was like Mathilda and the boy was like Max. They were also on horses. Max was on a palomino whilst Mathilda was on a strawberry roan. The boy rode a dark brown skewbald horse and the girl had a piebald one. "Hey Max." "Heya Clare. Easy Hansel. Who is that fine black stud?" "Our new family member." "Oh. Come on guys."

Trenton turned around and spotted Max. He swung his head gently from side to side. (Like Black Beauty does.) Chesney stopped him immediately as his legs were starting to shake. "Hey. You were told not to swing yer head Trenton. Hey Uncle Max." "Hey Chesney." The stated adult had jumped off his horse and walked up to Chesney. "This is one fine horse you got here. How old is he?" "About three years old. Come on trouble. This way. If you just bring the horses this way I'll settle them down in the stable." "Cheers Chesney." Once Chesney went into the stable with the horses the others went inside but Sophie sat at the side of the house. Chesney went inside after ten minutes but he left the stable door open a little bit so that Trenton could get out if he wanted something.

After twenty minutes more of sitting beside the house in thought Sophie decided to head in when someone grabbed her from behind. She tried fighting but it was no use. Her attacker was stronger. Sophie was slammed against the wall of the house gently so that the people inside couldn't suspect anything. Sophie had no idea what to do when she noticed it was Brooklyn. He covered her mouth before moving in. She tried screaming but only muffled sounds came out. "Hush now Sophie. It isn't that bad I promise. One small pain is all you feel I swear it." Sophie tried saying let me go but it never worked. Brooklyn smiled slightly and kissed Sophie before she could scream. Sophie tried booting Brooklyn in between his legs but her leg was caught and moved aside. The next thing Sophie never expected was for Brooklyn to actually strip her lower half. She felt a pain below and noticed pleasure on Brooklyn's face. She tried screaming again but it never worked. "Now who is the smart one Sophie? Without that horse around you're sitting ducks."

In the stable Trenton sensed trouble and he bolted up. He noticed that he wasn't tied up so he swiftly moved out of the stable and to where Sophie was. He took immediate action at Brooklyn. Sophie was relieved that Trenton had arrived. Brooklyn fought back this time. He hit Trenton in the face but that only made him angrier. Trenton reared up and hit Brooklyn back, snorting and blowing raspberries at him. "Trenton." "You stupid animal. Go back to where ever you came from." "Hit him Trenton!" As he was told Trenton hit Brooklyn again when Ernest arrived. "Sophie!" "Ernest!" "Stay here I'll get help." Ernest rushed off back into the house and Trenton pinned Brooklyn to the floor. Ernest returned with Ray and Chesney. Clare wasn't far behind. "Sophie!" "Mom." "What did he do to you?" "He…ah." "Tried to rape you. That is it. Ray. Call the cops. I've had enough. Trenton." "He saved me mama." "That is three times now. Keep him down until the cops arrive Trenton. Or pin him to a corner so he can't get out." Trenton chose the second option and pinned Brooklyn to the nearest corner, still snorting and pawing the ground.

It took the cops ten minutes to arrive and Brooklyn was still trapped. In seconds Brooklyn was flat on the floor having his hands cuffed behind his back tightly. One officer was getting Sophie's side of the story. "Okay Sophie. What were you doing when that guy grabbed you?" "I was just about to go back into the house after sitting outside for half an hour to think." "Okay dear. Did he hit you at all?" "No but he gripped my arm tightly." "Alright. We will need to take photographic evidence." "Sure." "Anyway. When did the horse come to your aid and why?" "Well. Trenton must've sensed trouble so he got curious I guess. He came just after the main rape started." "Well. You are lucky that he saved you. Not all horses do that." "Well officer. He saved my baby brother from two cougars yesterday. He has proof on his neck and shoulders." "Very well. He shall receive a reward for his courage and honour to your family. He looks reliable." "He is. Trenton is a life saver." "When did Ernest arrive?" "After Trenton by about a minute."

Once the cops left with Brooklyn and visual evidence Clare was with Trenton. "Well Trenton. I might be wrong about you boy. You have protected all of my kids. I just can't figure out why that is. Just stay close boy. We'll need you to help us out in the future." Trenton nodded gently before nuzzling Clare's face like he did in his human years. "My hubby used to do that. Whenever I was down he'd just rub his face against mine. You remind me of him so much. I just wish he was still here. The reason I don't really trust horses now is because my husband was murdered by one. I hope you understand. I trust you Trenton. You brave thing." Trenton let out a low neigh before pulling Clare into a hug. She accepted it immediately not knowing Ray was watching. 'Maybe Chesney was right. It has to be Kai. Otherwise he wouldn't have been so defensive. I know it's him. I need to prove it with Chesney. I just hope he'll understand me. Trenton is trying his best to get it through. He needs a hand.'

Trenton POV

After Brooklyn was arrested Clare seemed happier and she trusted me more. The human side of me was starting to surface. I think Ray can guess but he needs help. Sophie wouldn't stop thanking me for arriving at the right time although I should've got there sooner. But at least I saved my daughter. A storm was starting to pull in too so I was back in the stable. Chesney was lying beside me with Kai. The blanket covered us all up. Ginger had also joined in. Carla walked in and spotted us. "Hey guys. Chesney?" The said boy didn't answer as he was sleeping. "Hey Trenton. Such a pretty boy. And a brave one. If only every horse was like you. You look so much like our old horse trainer that used to live here. You've probably been told he was murdered by horse." I nodded at that and pulled the girl into a hug. She accepted it openly when Chesney started to stir. "Hey Carla." "Hey Chesney. You're cute when you're sleeping." "Thanks. Hey Trenton. You feeling better?" "He looks it. Give him a week. He'll be racing then I promise. I can help you train him so you can teach my brother a lesson."

I listened quietly as the pair talked. Ginger kept nudging me so I nudged her back each time. I could swear she was trying to catch my sexual attention. Kai would stir every now and then but he dozed back off. A bolt of lightning woke him right up and the other horses panicked. I stayed calm and tried to calm Kai down. He was screaming beyond belief each time a streak of lightning hit the ground or filled the air. "It's alright Kai. Trenton's here. You're safe. Hush now." Even after those words Kai didn't calm down. Chesney made a sling and placed it over my head and put Kai in it. "Trenton. Take him back to the house. Quickly." As I was told I stood up with haste and ran to the house. I kicked the door heavily with my front legs to get an answer. After two minutes of banging Clare opened the door. "Oh god. Come here baby. Trenton. Get in here. Before you catch a bleeding cold."

As I was told I walked into the house. I had forgotten what it looked like. Baby blue and pale red walls with the odd mint and peach. I felt something rough on my body. I looked to see Ray was drying me off. "Hey buddy. I know who you are. I'm gonna help you get the message through I swear it Kai." 'Thank you. At least someone understands me.' I nodded slightly and nudged Ray's face. "Get off. Your nose is wet. I'll get the other two. You stay here." Ray was about to go outside but I stopped him. He looked in my eyes and he knew right away. "Okay. I'll leave the door open for you pal. Make haste old friend." As told again I ran back outside to fetch the remaining two. Chesney knew to jump on but Carla was confused. "Come on. He's gonna take us inside." "I can't leave Ginger." "She'll be safe in here. The walls are stone not wood. Hurry." In the end Carla got on behind Chesney and I ran back to the house.

Normal POV

Once Trenton was inside he ground to a halt so his passengers could dismount. Ray helped Carla off and yet again dried Trenton's coat. "Good lad. In ya go. Living room this way." Ray led Trenton to the living room and the others were confused as to seeing him in it with them. "Okay." "So he doesn't catch a cold from being wet. The others will be fine in the barn." "Okay. Hey big boy." The boy that looked like Max walked slowly to Trenton and he backed away slightly before walking forwards. "So Max. How have you been?" "Not too bad Clare. The lad over by Trenton is Xander and this lady by me is Becky." "And the baby?" "Well. We had a right game trying to name her so we named her after my mother." "Aw. She's so sweet." "And who ever is this little guy? Oomph." "That's my youngest." "And named after his old man. Gee I miss looking in his eyes. Just like his fathers. Hey little fella." "Hn." Trenton walked over and grabbed the back of Kai's shirt before handing him back to Clare and lying down beside her.

Max was slightly confused by this but he passed it off. "And as you can see Trenton is protective of the kids." "Well there has to be a logical explanation. Trenton has Kai's features. Are you sure he wasn't reincarnated?" "We doubted it. Kai never believed in all that." "You don't have to believe. Take my uncle for example. He died in a car crash but four years later my aunt bought a dog and named him Fluke. Now the dog didn't look like my uncle but it was his reincarnation. He too was a bit of a scrooge like Kai used to be." "Well. I feel like he's trying to get a message through." "What do you mean Ray?" "Well it seems perfectly clear that Trenton is trying to tell Clare something but he can't say it in words so he's using actions. It would've taken some time for him to figure out if he is Kai's reincarnation that he was once a human three years ago. I mean. Since when did horses have amethyst eyes? Come on. Seriously." "Only time can tell."

Trenton could see the tension in the room so he stood up only to fall back down. Ray walked over and tried to check his neck but Trenton refused it. "Now. Come on Trenton. Keep still will ya. Stop moving. Chesney. I could use a hand." "He's never been like this before. Hey boy. Come on. Stop that. Behave." Even after that Trenton still wouldn't let Ray check the wounds. "This is really getting tedious you know." "Maybe Kai can help. Down you go honey. Go help Uncle Ray." As told Kai walked right up to Trenton and hugged him. Clare was right that Kai could help. Trenton stopped fidgeting and placed his head over Kai's shoulder pulling the child into a hug. Clare never expected one word to come from Kai. "Papa." "No honey. That's a horse not your father." "That is the thing Trenton is trying to say. I sensed it earlier when Brooklyn was arrested." "I can swear you've gone mad." "No I haven't. No other horse would protect the kids. They would just run and take no notice of the danger but Trenton is the opposite. He's brave. What would Kai have done?"