Monday Still
"Promise?" Amy said with uncertainty.
"Yeah. It's gonna be alright." He tried to reassure her.
She nodded, but clearly she was unconvinced.
"Would a pinky swear do the trick?" He said with a toothy grin then held out a bent pinky finger to her.
"Seriously?" Amy return his smile, then giggled at his silliness. "Wait! Are you making fun of me?" She squinted at him.
"Absolutely not. Come on." Pushing his pinky closer to her, his eyes shining.
"Fine." She hooked her little finger in his.
"Okay. Repeat after me." She grinned as he continued. "No matter where we go. No matter what we do."
"Hey...what about cross my heart and hope to die, stick a needle in my eye?" She raised an eyebrow.
"Honestly, Amy. Sticking a needle in my eye, just ouch. And...well, no matter what, I don't hope to die. I am still young..." he shrugged.
"Get that. Me neither...okay say it again."
"Okay...No matter where we go. No matter what we do." He said, then nodded to her to repeat.
She recited. "No matter where we go. No matter what we do."
"You'll always be there for me. And I'll always be there for you." He smiled.
Her eyes immediately glistened with emotion, her bottom lip trembled ever so slightly. She whispered. "You'll always be there for me. And I'll always be there for you."
"Pinky swear!" He finished with almost childish delight.
"Pinky swear." She smiled in return, but a single tear escaped and ran down her cheek. He brushed it away.
"Ty." Barely escaped her lips. "Do you mean it?"
"Yes...I do." He was subdued, serious.
"Even if we're not together any more?" She ventured.
Her words sucked the air out of him, but he pushed forward with conviction. "Amy. Listen. You are so much a part of me. I cannot and I will not let you go again. Do what you need to do. I support you fully. As your friend. But, this time. I am not going to make the same stupid mistakes. Okay?"
She nodded, "Okay." She leaned her shoulder into his, her pup in her arms. His arm wrapped around her, pulling her closer, he kissed the top of her head.
A silence settled over the two, each thinking about the other, their promises, their words.
Moments passed, she pulled away to look at his face, his eyes. "Ty. Did you make that up?"
He laughed at the thought. "Good one. Ah. No. But, there's a funny story..well maybe not funny." He shook his head knowing he was mangling his words. "Okay. I did a search on your pinky swear...just to learn its origins."
"Okay..." she responded, unsure where he was going.
"Did you know it's an actual poem from the 1900s?"
"No kidding?" Surprised, her eyebrows raised slightly.
"Yeah. Anyhow. I still don't like it, the short or the long version." He puckered his lips, wrinkled his nose making a face like he just sucked a lemon. "And. This saying, the one we just said, popped up in my search. I just liked it better."
"Me too." She agreed.
A mischievous look play on his face. "Okay. Truth be told, I think it's a promise for 12 year old girls and their BFF."
"Oh to be young!" She teased back "So...Does that make us BFFs?"
"I guess. But I prefer the old term."
"You mean..Best Friends?"
"Forever!" They both laughed, then she eased back into his shoulder.
A moment or two passed, she glanced down at Ruth, noticed her watch, jerked back. "Oh my gosh. It's almost 10:45. I am late. I need to work with Midnight before Nick gets here. And, he's gonna be here in about an hour." She climbed out of bed, put Ruth in her box, stepped into her boots, rushed down the loft stairs leaving Ty alone, staring after her.
He sighed heavily as he stood up to leave as well. She reappeared suddenly at the top of the steps smiling at him. "Hey."
"Hey." He asked, startled to see her. "Forget something?"
"Yeah. I forgot to say thanks. So...Thanks." She stepped up, hugged him around the waist. By force of habit, his arms automatically encircled her.
"For what?" He wondered.
She shrugged. "Just because."
"Oh." He smiled.
"And, hey Best Friend, if you want, you can stay here and read."
"Are you sure, BFF?"
"Of course!" Then she pulled away, smiled, turned on her booted heel, disappeared down into the barn.
Ty settled back onto her bed, its quilt rumpled and its pillows whopper-jawed, and opened her journal where he left off.
Amy's Journal Day 89.
He saw the white envelope, knew that it contained her pay stub for 30k.
"30k." He rubbed his chin, tried to remember what Mrs. Bell said about money. He recounted her words as they materialized, transformed in his brain. Don't compete over money. Be proud of Amy and her accomplishments. Her success doesn't diminish mine.
"I am proud of you Amy. Always have been. You worked very hard for Ahmed. And you earned every penny of this 30k." He said aloud, just focusing on her, her accomplishment.
Then he added. "Amy. You should have been paid more!" He chuckled to himself.
Then he heard her, her voice, her laughter, her words of encouragement floating into the loft. He rose from her bed, lifted Ruth from her slumber to his chest, then walked to the hay door, open to the midmorning light. He stood, cradling her baby, stroking her warmth, watching the woman he loved practice her craft.
In that moment, he replayed their words, their promises of this morning in his head. He had made that vow to her, to himself. That he would truthful, honest, that he would not repeat his mistakes. That he would always be there for her. He would be her best friend. He hoped he could live up to what he promised, and to what she deserved.
He retrieved journal, sat at the old wooden table, Amy in his sights, Ruthie in the crook of his arm, he begin to read again, this time to listen to her words, to see from her eyes.
Amy's Journal Day 89
Payday is always a good day. But today when I opened my paycheck, there was a huge surprise, a bonus for our first and third place wins in Rome a couple of weeks ago. :)
When I arrived at the barn at 6am, both Jamal and Omar were waiting for me, unusual for them on a Saturday. Jamal wanted to schedule extra Liberty sessions with Solstice for the competition in Barcelona next weekend. He and Solstice had made excellent progress. So we actually switched out the afternoon ride for Liberty work.
Omar on the other hand wanted to switch out Zeus for Winter's Snow. I hadn't intended for her to be in competition, but she had proven to be an excellent jumper, with solid, consistent form and graceful style. So we made the switch.
Redwood has been somewhat of a disappointment so Malik will now be paired with Zeus.
I had been working with Juliet for preparation for sale. I may need to add Redwood to that list. I will discuss him with Ahmed.
The last ride of the day, just the six of us, was the perfect capstone for a solid training day. I rode Juliet, Ahmed with Emir, Hassan with Noble, Omar with Snow, Jamal with Solstice and Malik with Zeus. The warm air from the soon setting sun, the brilliant sky of pinks and purples, yellows and oranges seemed honestly to be a mirror to the wildflowers intermixed with the grass. It was such a pretty evening. We rode to the outer field in the far reaches of the property, a slow, easy walk, solemn, each of us focused on our own thoughts. Ahmed led the way to an overlook of the sweeping valley, dotted with vineyards but mostly horse farms.
The ride, the fields, the overlook, reminded me of Heartland, home, the rides we would take together as a family, the memorials rides for mom. I remembered that first one, how my heart ached, how I wanted to say so much, how I could only say a few words, how her death was still so fresh, bruising, lonely.
Its funny how I can get so absorbed in my work here, so hyper-focused on a task, a horse or competition, and forget about home and Ty. About missing them. Maybe it's self preservation. But. It only works for a little while.
He understood completely, because he did same thing while she was gone. He submersed himself in school, fast tracking, the clinic, his business with Caleb. Downtime found him with Caleb in KOs drowning his feelings with beer, or stronger. Anything to keep his mind off of Amy, how much he missed her.
But in the next instant, without fair warning, my missing feelings seep in, gaining strength like a dam breaking, gushing with emotions, my insides ripping apart, echoing of emptiness, hollow except for the missing. It hurts so bad.
During today's ride, I fell behind, little by little, lost in my thoughts of home. Then bam, those feelings came hard, before I knew it, overwhelming me. I felt like I couldn't breath. Homesickness, loneliness crept in, I miss home. I miss Ty. I MISS TY.
"Amy. I know how much it hurts." He whispered, remembering those same instants. He never told her, he didn't want her to feel bad. But it happened when he least expected it too. Once it happened at the clinic. Capri, a tiny kitten, gray with long hair was very ill, dehydrated and needed IV fluids stat. She was Ty's patient. But, she looked just like the stray kitten Amy brought home, hidden in her coat so Jack wouldn't know. Thoughts of Amy, missing her, hit him hard in that instant. He got so upset that he couldn't do the basic procedure, Cass had to take over. He never told Amy. He should have. Apparently, she did the same. "Oh Amy."
I just left, turned around, galloped back toward the barn. I didn't want anyone see me fall apart.
But. Before I knew it, Ahmed was galloping beside us. I didn't want company, I wanted to be alone. But, I slowed Juliet to a walk anyhow, I was afraid Emir would suffer injury by galloping. I would have felt so bad if he got a stone bruise or something and couldn't compete.
So. We rode together, back to the barn. I didn't talk, I was barely holding myself together. After the grooms took the horses, Ahmed suggested we talk in the office. He was so kind. He said he worried about me, worried that I was unhappy, worried that I was unhappy with him.
"He was there for you, wasn't he? I wasn't." Regretting for the millionth time that he didn't try harder. Instead, it was Ahmed worrying about her, comforting her, caring for her.
"I let it happen. I just let him take my place." Ty admitted to Ruthie, to himself.
I explained that I was just homesick, needed to talk with Ty, that I missed him. He said he understood, that I should call Ty immediately. He left the office to give me privacy.
So I called Ty, but it went straight to voicemail. I called Lou, it went to voicemail. I called grandpa. He never set up voicemail so it just kept ringing. It was 10am in Hudson on a Saturday, guess everyone was working, or something. I felt so alone, so lonely. I just cried, sobbed. I was a mess.
Ty scrolled through his call log, text messages, his voicemail on that day. He now recalled the day vividly. His call log showed that he talked to and texted Caleb multiple times that morning while he was at the clinic. Caleb found some horses that he was interested in. No call or text from Amy. Though there was by one later in the day. Maybe she was confused on the time zone?
When I finally pulled myself together, I decided to go to home, but Syed and the car weren't in their usual spot. I called, he had a flat tire. Poor guy, he was having a bad day too.
Ahmed waited with me. He asked me if I felt better. I was embarrassed by my behavior, so unprofessional. So I lied, said yes. We, well mostly Ahmed, talked our upcoming trip to Barcelona and the competition at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona venue.
He said I had a gift for picking and training horses, Snow, Noble and Solstice. He was lucky that I was their trainer. :)
Then. He surprised me and asked about buying Winter Snow. ;) how about that! He offered 16k, double my investment. I said No, that he should wait to see how she did this weekend. I honestly think she's going to do really well. :)
I was grateful that Ahmed waited with me. He got my mind off of my homesickness. I honestly felt better. Ahmed is such a good boss and friend.
Ty sighed heavily. He knew that was a turning point.
Then. Syed called, said the flat tire was taking longer than expected, so Ahmed called his own driver to take me home. He even rode with me. We talked about Redwood and Juliet, my plans to retrain and rehome them. He told me that he trusted my instincts completely. :)
Adela was waiting in my apartment for me. She said Ahmed had called, that he was worried about me. How sweet! She had dinner delivered, my favorite French-style vegetarian chili, yummy local Camembert cheese, baguette, fig spread. We ate dinner together. I told her about being homesick, about calling home. She thought everyone was just busy, doing normal Saturday things. She suggested that I called later.
After dinner, she gave me a present, a French linen nightgown in the palest of greens. It's frilly, pretty. She said that she appreciated our friendship. I was so touched. I don't know what I do without her honestly. My Adela-Lou.
She wanted me to try it on. Weird request. But, I didn't want to hurt her feelings, so I did. It's a bit more, I don't know, girlie than I am. An even weirder request. She asked if she could take a picture, to send to Andrie. I felt uncomfortable, but didn't want to hurt her feelings.
Then she said that my nails were in need of attention! She insisted on giving me a manicure. I must admit, it felt good and my hands and nails looked nice. Even Lou would be jealous!
I finally got to talk to Ty. He was so happy, excited about his horse business. He and Caleb purchased more horses today, probably about the time when I tried to call earlier. Anyhow. He thinks they may already have a buyer. I am so proud of him. Juggling so many things well. He is an amazing man. I MISS him so much.
Only a little over month left.
A heaviness overcame him, he didn't see himself as the amazing man that Amy did. Much to his dismay, he was much less.
Amy's Journal Day 90
Slept in late this morning, nearly 7am before I got to the barn. I started with Redmond, a join-up in the inside round pen so I check out the video his movements. After flat exercises, we did several rounds of jumps, his groom resetting the jumps as I rode. The groom turned him out into the small field for regular horse time in the sunshine while I reviewed the video clips.
At first I didn't see it, it was so very subtle. But, on jump take off Redwood was just a fraction of an inch off, unbalanced. Instead of leaping at the same lift and time, his right foot was leaving the ground with a tiny bit of hesitation and wobble. I replayed this morning's video multiple times, zooming into his back feet to confirm. Then I went back and reviewed every video of Redmond since he came to Château de Chevaux Dansants. Every one showed the same. I kicked myself that I didn't see it visually.
I called in Dr. Antar and John, our farrier, to examine and measure his hooves. Thankfully, there was no disease, injury or abnormality in Redwood's feet, just imperfect farrier work. His back right hoof trim was just a tiny bit more on the outside causing Redwood's ankle to turnout to compensate for the over-trim, resulting in instability and imbalance. John suggested that all shoes be replaced and hoof wall, sole and frogs be trimmed. Redwood was taken to the farrier hut so John could work with the blacksmith. We decided on hydrotherapy with underwater treadmill for the week to strengthen the right foot and improve hoof balance.
When I returned to the office, I realized that I had not stopped the video so it was still playing. What I saw startled me. The video was focused solely on me, not me and the horse I was working with. Just me. How was that possible? Why was the camera zoomed in on me?
Dr. Antar said the the cameras automatically capture movement and sometimes the angle gets recalibrated incorrectly. His explanation seemed plausible. But it stills nags at me. I am going to ask security.
Ty felt like he was watching a car crash in slow motion. He knew what was going to happen in the future with Ahmed. But, Amy was oblivious to it. She only saw the good in everyone. And, honestly, Ahmed didn't do anything overt to elicit warning. "Oh Amy. Why didn't you tell me?" He huffed realizing that even if she did tell him, there was nothing he could have done from Canada.
I worked with Juliet after Redwood. She really enjoys Liberty work even more so than jump work. We did quite a bit today in the outside field just the basic exercises, with the lead and long switch. She has caught on quickly with following, stops, turns, switch overs, accelerations, direction changes. I really don't need to apply pressure, except when learning a new step. The time really flew by.
I reached out to Renard today to get advice about Juliet and her Liberty training.
"You stayed in touch with Renard?" He exclaimed aloud, surprised that she remained in touch with him, that he didn't know that she had. He felt a twinge in his chest, though he wasn't sure why.
Turns out, he'll be in Paris next week for a show. As always, it was so wonderful to hear his voice, so calming and encouraging. We talked about his work and about Juliet. He's interested in seeing her. I can't wait. But that definitely means I need to double my efforts with her training.
When I got back to my apartment at 6pm, Adela had left a note about a late dinner at 8pm with the team. She laid out a red print dress with a scoop neckline and my new sandals. She also left some lavender bubble bath, so I did a bit of yoga then took a long hot bath in a claw footed soaker tub. I could have slept in there, it was glorious.
We had dinner Café Bec et Branchies (Beak and Gill Cafe-cool name) tonight, Adela and Dr. Antar came along. Everyone was so excited about Barcelona and talkative. Ahmed toasted the team and me!!! He told them about how I selected three of five horses that we will be riding this weekend. The team toasted me! I felt a little embarrassed, but so proud. I think that finally they have accepted me. :)
"Good for you Amy!" He knew she had worked hard with the horses and riders to gain their respect. He could read the excitement and pride into her words.
I ordered eel for diner. Yuck! Double Yuck!! One bite was more than enough. I will never order that again...so salty.
Ahmed told me tonight to prepare to leave on Thursday for Barcelona, a day early. I redid all training plans after dinner so I didn't have a chance to call Ty. :(
Amy's Journal Day 91
Another Monday. We had our team meeting at 6am. I laid out our new plan for the week given that we will have one less training day. We will focus on flat work, jumping and Liberty cutting out our easy ride.
We had a solid day of training. After everyone left I worked with Redwood on flat work. His right back foot seems still be adjusting to the new trim. His groom told me that he was doing well with his hydrotherapy. Hopefully tomorrow I can observe Redwood during his therapy.
I saved the best for last. Liberty with Juliet! We rode bareback through the outer field, until we found a flat, secluded place near the river. She seemed to know that we would dance together. As soon as I dismounted, she got really excited, pawing and nodding playfully. She made me laugh with excitement too.
At first, we practiced with both the lead and long switch with pressure and release to her shoulder, side or hindquarter. She hadn't missed a cue on the lead, so I took a chance and removed her lead. She was just as attentive, but more fluid and in step with me. We did follow, stop, turn, switchback, backward, and even got her to stay then come. We seem to have forged a strong bond. Juliet shows natural confidence and incredible intelligence. I can't wait for Renard to see her.
It was weird. When we finished our exercises, Ahmed startled me. He was there, out in the middle of nowhere, mounted on Rein, clapping. I had no idea how he knew where we were. Maybe he just happened to ride up on us. He has a strange knack for doing that. It sorta feels like I am being followed.
"Watch out Amy." Ty grew even more frustrated, fearful for her, her trusting nature and he was afraid she'd get hurt. He couldn't do a thing, it had already happened.
We rode back to the barn together. We talked about Barcelona, the riders, horses. He asked about Winter Snow again. He raised his offer to 24k. I said No. I want to see how she'll perform under pressure of competition first. Ahmed does not like to hear No.
Talked to Lou tonight. She seemed in better spirits. Peter is coming to town next weekend so she had booked the Dude Ranch for a romantic getaway. Good for them. She didn't seemed interested in my training work...
Dad got on the phone. Before he said anything else, he wanted to know if I was making good money. Figures.
Amy's Journal Day 92
Early to the barn, late to bed. Syed drove me to the barn early. He told me that he had read an article in some psychology journal that studied long distance relationships. Apparently, the study proved that success of the relationship rests upon both partners committing to regular and honest communication. Syed talks to his wife every night just before he goes to bed and every morning when he wakes up.
I am lucky if I talk to Ty once every few days. We are both so busy. :( so I texted him right then.
He found the text, "Ty. I love you. Let's talk tonight. Please. Amy. Xoxo."
Another good day of training. Ahmed has really improved his Liberty moves and jumps. He and Emir seem to continue to bond.
One small bump. As per usual, when we finished our training, each rider is supposed to do a light grooming of their horse. As I have told the riders many times, this helps to improve the bond between rider and horse.
But. Ahmed bailed tonight. When I went to get Juliet for Liberty work, I saw Emir's groom doing Ahmed's work. So I called Ahmed, asked him to come to the barn. When he got there, I calmly requested that he groom his horse. I reminded him about the rider- horse relationship, trust, bond. Eventually he acquiesced and groomed Emir, but I could tell he was angry, maybe even embarrassed..simply by the way he was brushing Emir. I had to remind him to be kind and gentle. Just to make sure, he didn't damage their bond, I helped groom Emir, along side of Ahmed. Sometimes he acts just like a spoiled child. :(
I get that Ahmed is a prince and the team captain. But, as head trainer, I have to ensure that each rider is treated equally. And, basic grooming at the end of training just reinforces the bond, partnership between rider and horse. It gives the rider an opportunity show their horse appreciation.
And...It's not like I am asking the riders to shovel muck, clean tack, bath their horse. Just a basic brush at the end of the day. It's not that much to ask. :(
Finally. I ended my work day doing flat work with Redwood, then Liberty work with Juliet. Liberty work has become a way for me to relax after a very stressful day.
When I got to my apartment around 8, Adela was there. She said we were going to dinner with Ahmed and the team. The new green dress that she picked for me to wear was, well, a little too revealing. She said that it was Ahmed's favorite color, and that it would make him happy. I told her to take it back.
I wore the red print dress again. Adela-Lou was not pleased. Oh well.
We dined at Le Vauquelin. Ahmed was pretty quiet to begin, guess he was still stewing about grooming Emir. Eventually he came around. I had Hake and Polenta, a grilled fish with a creamy cornmeal porridge. Pretty good.
Got home late, didn't reach Ty. Sent a text instead.
The text was there, simply said. "Miss you so much. Love and kisses. Xoxo"
Amy's Journal Day 93
Busy day. And a dreary one at that. It rained cats and dogs most of the day.
Last day of training before we head to Spain. We stuck to the basics, flat work, jump work, Liberty, and groom. Helped Dr. Antar with health checks and paperwork for Equiline.
Exercised Redwood lightly, hydrotherapy is working magic for him.
Best part of the day was Juliet and Liberty. The rain let up so we worked outside. Both of us were a muddy mess, from foot to head by the time we were through. I gave her a bath. Wished that I had my ingredients to make my own soap. :(
It was well past 9pm when I got home. Showered, ate, then retired to bed. I am exhausted. No calls tonight. Though I did get a sweet text from Ty. I miss him so much.
Amy's Journal Day 94
Whirlwind today.
"Ty, you around?" Jack yelled from yard, interrupting Ty's reading. Hurrying, he dropped Amy's journal in Ruth's box, then situated the pup towel on top. He wasn't sure if Jack knew about the journal, and he wasn't going to be one to let him know. The journal was Amy's to share, not his.
"Hey Jack. I didn't expect you back today." Meeting Jack at the barn door. "Thought you were going to Lisa's." He said, then noticed Amy talking with Nick just over Jack's shoulder.
"Well, I finished up her fence quicker than expected. I had this load of feed and supplies..and the spark plugs." Jack turned to see what Ty was looking at. "Ah. I didn't know Nick Harwell was here."
"Yeah. He got here around noon."
"Lou says he's her new business partner." Jack said as Amy and Nick started laughing about something, reminding him of that Chase Powers fellow. He looked back at Ty, concerned for him. "Just business partners. Ty. That's all. Nothing more."
Ty nodded. "Yeah. I know." Then he said, "Come on. Let's get this stuff unloaded and Goldie running like a top again."
"Yep." The two men worked for the next hour, side by side, father and son. Supplies unloaded and spark plugs changed. Ty was closing the hood to Goldie when he saw Amy drive off in her truck. He checked out his watch, 12:57pm.
"Damn!" He had class in one hour, if he left right then he wouldn't be late. But, his hands were greasy and he was sweaty. He had promised her he would not skip class today. So he ran to the ranch, quickly washed up, jumped in old Blue and headed north.
Five miles outside of Hudson, he realized he forgotten her journal. He swore at his stupidity, but kept driving, pressing the gas pedal just a bit more. He had to keep at least one promise.
Amy arrived at the Administration Building on the University of Calgary campus with several minutes to spare. She peeked into the cardboard box strapped into the seat next to her. Ruthie was nestled amongst a white towel and her tank top sound asleep. Her next feeding was still two hours away. She figured Cassidy wouldn't mind the little interruption before her lesson. She kissed her index finger, then touched the puppy's pink nose, causing her to squirm, then resettle.
"Now Ruth. I will be back in little over an hour. Be a good girl. And no adventures while I am gone. My sweet, pretty girl." Amy cracked the window just slightly so fresh air could circulate in the cab.
Amy stopped just outside of the building's front door. Take a deep breath, she urged herself. "Okay Amy. One day at a time. You can do this." She said to herself before she stepped forward, opened the door and walked in.
In the reception area, Dr. Flower's assistant greeted her like they were long lost friends, a stark contrast from their first and only meeting. "Hello Ms. Fleming, it's so nice to see you again. Ms. Flower is waiting for you. Please follow me."
She escorted Amy down a long hall, passing by Summer's office, and eventually into a bright, modern conference room with five people sitting around a sleek oval table not much bigger than Heartland's dinning room table. She recognized the artwork of Jim Oskineegish, vibrant color, woodland design of two birds, one small tucked under the wing of the larger one. It hung directly across the room from the door. Amy felt somehow comforted.
Summer rose from her high backed chair, to greet her with a hug, welcoming her. "Amy. How wonderful to see you again."
"Hello Summer. Thank you for seeing me."
"Amy, Please come in and let's all get acquainted." Summer closed the door behind them.
"Hello everyone." Amy said reservedly, held up her hand briefly to signal hello.
"Amy, please take a seat, get comfortable. Would you like a beverage?" Summer asked.
"Yes, water would be nice. Thank you." A younger woman sitting next to her, rose, poured water into an empty glass, and placed it on a wooden coaster in front of Amy. Amy took a sip to wet her dry mouth, parched from her nervousness.
"Everyone, please meet Amy Fleming. She's an extraordinarily accomplished equestrian business woman with many talents. Trainer, coach, behavioralist, healer, competitor, barrel racer, jumper, jockey. And more. Of late, she has been on contract with the Saudi Arabian Equestrian team as their head trainer for the World Equestrian Games in France. And. She is only 22 years of age."
An impressed murmur rose from the assembled, nodding appreciatively at her. Amy acknowledged her thanks with a shy smile and a slightly bent head.
"Amy. Let me introduce you. To my right is Jane Kim, she is a lawyer and UG professor specializing in Canadian and Alberta Employment Law and Workplace Harassment."
"Hello Amy." Jane, a petite Korean woman with a short dark bob and a dazzling smile, shook her hand.
"Next to her is Erica Hamilton. She is a plaintiff trial lawyer and also UG professor focusing on tort and contract cases tried under Canada's workplace and employment laws."
"So very pleased to meet you." Erica, a middle aged women with red hair, porcelain skin, freckles and kind eyes, grasped Amy's hand in both of hers.
"Next is Charles Emmitt, he is a trial lawyer with Barreau du Quebec and the French National Bar Council specializing in French Employment Code including harassment."
Charles rose from his seat, towering over her, reached across the table, and shook Amy's hand. He had European flair in his attire and style. She noticed his handsomely manicured fingernails.
"Lastly, sitting to your left is Alasie Snow. She is a paralegal and a court reporter. She will be documenting and researching your case."
"Hi." Alasie, no much older than Amy, had thick glasses that almost hid his violet eyes. Amy and Alasie also shook hands.
"Nice to meet everyone." Amy offered.
Summer started. "Amy. In our private discussions, you alluded to several incidents that potentially rise to the level of workplace harassment. I asked my colleagues to gather so you could tell your story. As a group, we can help you assess the legal implications of those incidents and the path forward. Are you okay to move forward with that discussion today?"
Amy nodded. "Yes."
"Remember, you are under no obligation to take our advice. So, just relax, be honest and tell us your story. It helps to tell us things in chronological order, and provide details, documents, dates, witnesses, if possible. No detail is too small. Ask questions as you like."
"Okay. Thank you."
"For this meeting, and every future meetings, we will act as your council, therefore we are obligated to keep these discussions confidential. A single dollar will be assessed for our council."
"Thank you. I really appreciate your help." Amy handed Summer a single bill.
"Good. Do you mind if we record this meeting?"
Amy shook her head No.
"Okay. Let's get started, shall we?...Amy Fleming, we are here to listen and learn from you about your workplace situation while you were employed by the National Saudi Arabian equestrian team, and before and after said employment. Specifically, we would like for you to focus on the background information, your employer, and the incidents in question."
"Did you bring your a copy of your employment contract?"
Amy nodded, handed her the contract.
"Very good. Where did you sign this contract?" Erica asked Amy.
"I signed the employment contract in Hudson, Alberta at the Hillhurst facility." Amy replied.
"Good. That establishes that laws that oversee your employment fall under Alberta law." Erica explained.
Kim smiled, then added. "Amy. Please tell us the situation from the beginning. Nothing is off limits that includes how you felt, what you thought, no matter how insignificant. That also includes any corroborating information such as emails, text, phone calls, meetings, conversations. Take your time."
Amy was prepared, she pulled out her timeline and her notes and started from the beginning. "I began to work for Prince Ahmed al Saeed and the Saudi Arabian Equestrian team more than 18 months. I provided numerous equestrian services including behavioral and physical rehabilitation, individual and team riding/jump coaching, competitive show jumping horse training, animal stabling, nutrition and exercise management, and lastly, head trainer for team during the lead up and during the World Equestrian Games. We were very successful as a team under the time I was head trainer, going from mediocre results to team and individual gold medals in the games in little over four months."
"When did the incidents start?" Jane asked.
"They started even before I left for Europe, it's just that I didn't not realize it. I sincerely thought that they were coincidence, or my imagination..."
Amy's detailed summary lasted an hour and half, spellbinding those assembled around the table.
"That's about it. What do you think?" Amy asked, hoping that she wasn't imagining things.
"Wow. That's an incredible story. Thank you for sharing. I do believe that we have basic evidence that you were indeed subjected to harassment on many levels."
"Not just violation of Alberta law but also French law." Charles added. "But we will need more evidence, witnesses."
"What compensation are you seeking Amy?"
"I don't want any money or anything like that. While my time working for Ahmed was educational, challenging, rewarding and yes, fun, he and his staff also hurt me and my family, my fiancé. I mean my ex-fiancé. They invaded us, divided us, took what didn't belong to them. I just want my family, my friends and my ex-fiancé to be safe from any harassment or retribution from Ahmed and his staff. Mostly, I want them to know the truth." Amy answered honestly.
"Okay. Well. What about you Amy? You were the one who was directly harassed." Erica asked.
"I think I can take care of myself." She shrugged her shoulders. "And. Money can not undo what has happened."
"Okay."
"Anything else?"
"Yes. Here's a copy of the police report on our bugged phones and computers. And, here are copies of our orders of protection."
"Okay. Let us review all these documents and our notes. I will call you in a couple of days." Amy shook hands with everyone except Summer, who she hugged.
"Thank you. Have a good day." Amy left the room, left out a sigh of relief, then headed to her truck.
"She definitely seems to have a good case."
"Agreed. But. She's holding something back." All five nodded in agreement.
"It definitely seems that way." Summer added. "But speaking from experience, the victim believes that somehow they contributed to or caused the harassment. That may be at play here." She rubbed her eyes. "Regardless, I'll talk with her."
Amy arrived at the Polo Club with 5 minutes to spare. Cassidy was standing at the driver side door before she even cut the engine, making Amy laugh out loud.
"Cassidy! How are you?" Amy said as she stepped out of the truck.
"Oh Amy! I am so excited for our lesson today." She squealed, bouncing up and down on the balls of her feet, unable to contain her raw energy.
"I can see that. I'm excited too." She walked around to the passenger side of the truck. "I am going to need your help first."
Following not a half a step behind her, Cassidy chirped. "Sure, what?"
"How are you with babies?" Amy asked.
Immediately, Cassidy's shoulders slumped, her bottom lip protruded, corners of her mouth dipped in a cartoon frown.
"What? You don't like babies?" Amy chided her.
"I guess they are alright. I mean. I do have a baby sister. So." She huffed. "I mean, I do not want to babysit, okay?" She was pretty adamant.
"What if it's a furry baby?" Amy asked, knowing that Cassidy could not resist. "A puppy!"
"Oh I love puppies. What do you need me to do?" Cassidy's excitement was back.
"Will you bottle feed her?"
Cassidy grinned, bouncing again. "Sure. Show me how."
Amy gently lifted Ruth out of her box then put the box on the floor board. "Climb in." She motioned to Cassidy to get in the passenger seat. Settled, Amy nestled the little puppy in Cassidy's outstretched hands.
"She's so cute. And, tiny." She giggled. "What's her name?"
"Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Ruth for short. She's just barely a week old." Amy then explained how to hold and feed her with the bottle and elongated nipple.
"Gosh. Ruth is really hungry too."
Feeding finished, they walked to Sally Ride's stable, Cassidy carrying Ruth and Amy her box. "Cassidy. I wanted to talk about how I plan on coaching you."
"Okay. How?"
"First thing. My goal is to help you and Sally Ride establish a solid foundation and a strong partnership. This partnership is essential for you to reach your highest potential together."
"Okay."
"To build these things, we have to start from the ground and work up. My methods are probably very different from any other coach that you have had. So, I really need you to trust me and my methods."
Okay..." Cassidy said hesitantly.
"I will explain everything, promise. And I want you to ask as many questions as you like. We are in this together. The three of us."
"Okay. So what do we do today?"
"We are going to start with joint up, simple Liberty exercises and grooming today and the rest of this week. This will help to build that foundation and partnership."
"What about jumping?"
"We'll get to that next week or the week following."
"There's a competition this weekend."
"You can go, but you are not going to ride Sally Ride. The two of you are not ready."
"Oh."
"Come on. We'll have a lot of fun. You'll see. But more importantly, you and Sally Ride will become BFFs. So much so that you will be able to communicate well with each other, read and respond to each other's cues, know each other's wants and needs. She'll want to please you and you'll want to please her. You will be a team with shared goals. That includes performing well in competition. But it goes beyond just the jumping in the arena."
"Okay. That sounds good. Let's get started." Cassidy brightened.
Well past 7pm as the sun was close to set, Amy and Spartan arrived at Mrs. Bell's house. Swaddled in a chambray wrap, Ruth was found asleep having been rocked by the rhythm of Spartan's canter. Amy dismounted, Mrs. Bell, sitting on her porch shucking corn, greeted her.
"Well hello Amy!" As usual, a pleased, welcoming expression played on the elder's face.
"Hello Mrs. Bell. How are you?"
"Famished. Would you like to join me for dinner?"
"Yes, I would love that. But I brought a guest."
"Oh?"
Amy pulled little Ruth out of her cotton sling. "Mrs. Bell. Please meet Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Ruth for short. She's my new puppy."
"Oh my goodness. There's a baby I want to hold." Amy placed Ruth in her hands.
"She's an English Setter."
"Beautiful breed. Ruth, you are just perfect." Mrs. Bell declared holding the puppy close to her face, then kissed her nose. "Puppy breath. Almost as sweet as Sugarfoot breath."
Hearing his name, Sugarfoot drew close to his master's side to inspect the creature.
"Sugarfoot. Please meet Ruth Bader Ginsberg. I foresee that she is going to be a friend to the both of us." Mrs. Bell lowered the pup to Sugarfoot's nose. The miniature horse let out a soft, low nicker welcoming Ruth. Ruth squirmed, seeking his warm breath.
"Look at that. I think they like each other." Amy observed with a smile.
"But of course. Sugarfoot likes everybody. And who doesn't like Sugarfoot." Mrs. Bell clucked. "We best get started on dinner."
"How can I help?"
"You can make it."
"Well okay!" Amy laughed. "What is on the menu?"
"Sweet corn, rosemary chicken, and kale salad."
"Yum. I will need your guidance."
"Well of course. Let's go in to the kitchen and get started. We are burning daylight." Amy tucked Ruth back into her chambray swaddling, then helped Mrs. Bell to her feet.
"Thank you dear. Please bring the corn with you."
Once in the kitchen, Mrs. Bell settled into a chair with Ruth in her lap and Sugarfoot by her side while Amy donned an apron and washed her hands.
"Okay. What's next?
"Get the chicken out of refrigerator, pat dry, season with salt and pepper. Then add two tablespoons olive oil in cast iron skillet warmed to medium high. In the meanwhile, go out to the garden and get two heathy springs of rosemary."
Returning to the house with rosemary in hand, Amy asked, "Okay, what's next?"
"You are quick!"Mrs. Bell remarked. "Okay. Now. If the oil is shimmering, meaning it's hot, place chicken in oil. Rinse the rosemary. Pinch the stem near the top with the fingers of one hand, then run the fingers of your other hand down the length of the stem from top to bottom. The individual blades will release."
"That's pretty cool."
"Yep. Now. Chop the rosemary and a clove or two of garlic on the cutting board. Throw that in with the chicken."
"Okay. Done."
"Now fill a pot, big enough to hold the 6 ears of corn, with water. Put on stove at high flame with lid."
"Okay."
"Make your salad. Arugula, blackberries, pear, purple onion, and almond slivers. Just rinse lightly the greens and berries. Slice the pear. Chop the onion. Put all in a bowl."
"Okay."
"Good. Doesn't that look pleasing. We'll do a light olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. And a little salt and pepper."
"Okay."
"Check your chicken. If it's browned, turn it over. Oh, and, I see you water is boiling. Throw in the ears. Lid off."
"Okay."
"You have time to set the table. Use the nice china dear. And, crystal water goblets and wine. Three settings."
"Three?"
"Yes dear." Amy wanted to asked, but decided to be surprised. Maybe she was setting a place for Ruth.
Start to finish, the meal was made in 30 minutes. Amy was very proud of herself as everything looked and smelled heavenly. As Mrs. Bell was pouring the wine, the front door opened. "Hey. Hope that I am not late."
Hello dear readers. Hope you are well, happy and healthy!! Take a read and let me know your thoughts.
SBR