Walker: Secrets

by MissieWritesFanfiction

To say it's time to move on is easy, to actually start leaving your past behind; that is a lot harder. It's been a few months now since Maddie came to live with the Walkers and slowly, she has begun to find her footing in the family. She's hiding a secret though, a secret that once revealed could break the family more then the Davidson's ever could.

50. Chapter 50

Another long chapter here but things are moving on now. Quiet before the storm.

Enjoy

The arena was still and quiet as Maddie walked Dakota in Saturday morning, so early that no one else was there with their horses. Abeline and Mika were still asleep back at the motel when she and Bonham had quietly headed out so she could get some extra practice in with Dakota while no one else was around.

Dakota wore no tack, no halter or neck rope, nothing.. The way she liked it. No bits, no bridles, no saddles, the only thing controlling her mare being their bond and connection. Halting the mare in the center of the arena she took a moment to rub her forehead then began going through their liberty moves.

She'd decided that her freestyle performance was going to be as simple as possible, no props or anything, just a showcase of what she and Dakota could no. No saddle, no bridle. They'd do it completely tack-less. As Dakota calmly trotted around her Maddie's smile grew. Dakota was still with her, their bond was as strong as ever. Her mare wasn't bothered the least bit by being in this new place at liberty or at the decorations and flags hanging up on the fence. Their practice, the effort that she had put into the mare had all been worth it. They were ready. More then ready.

With a whistle and lowering of her whips she asked the mare to come back to her and when Dakota had stopped beside her, dropped the whips to the ground and vaulted on. Dakota jumped forward into a smooth canter at the lightest touch, Maddie guiding her direction with the gentlest pressure from her heels.

They rode around, practicing through every movement and trick that she had taught the mare in the hundred and thirty days that she'd had her for. This show tonight was probably the biggest moment of their lives, she wanted to be dead certain that they both were ready for something as big as this. They were both in their element, horse and rider becoming one. This was what they enjoyed the most. To them, this was play. Away from the bridles, away from the saddles. Just the chance to be truly one with each other. This was what she wanted to show them. Show everyone that they didn't have to use bits and spurs to get the horse to do as they wanted. No fancy gimichs, just a performance brought forth from a relationship of trust.

She was nervous though about performing in front of so many people. Who wouldn't be? This was a far cry from entertaining some children back at the Equestrian Center. They would be performing in front of hundreds of people, thousands perhaps if she counted the fact it would be broadcasted live on the internet too. Bringing Dakota back to a halt once they'd gone through their practice again she laid down over the mare's neck to give her a hug, taking a moment to have a deep breath and try to relax.

They could do this.

They would do this.

Wishing to keep what she was going to do a secret she brought their practice to an end when a couple of other trainers came into the main arena to work their horses. What they had done would have to be enough and so after haltering her she led her back out once more and made her way over to the round yard to let Dakota have some chill out time.

When she was turned loose Dakota promptly had a roll, Maddie chuckling as she watched the mare jump up when she was finished, bucking and kicking as she ran around the yard. Dakota needed a moment to relax just as much as she had and when the mare had finally gotten out all her nervous energy she caught her again and they headed back to the stable block.

A few of the other trainers were already with their horses when she got back, Maddie exchanging polite conversation with a few of them as she passed by. Samantha was grooming Blossom when she returned to their stall and after tying Dakota up she set to work on mucking out the stall.

Time passed by, the stable block becoming busier as the rest of the trainers arrived to take care of their horses, even the ones not competing still having to tend to them. Maddie had just started grooming Dakota when Abeline came walking through the crowd. 'Morning Mawline.' She smiled at her as she brushed the sand from her mares back. 'Mika with you?'

'She went with Bon to go grab some coffee.' Abeline replied. 'How long have you been here already?'

'Since four thirty. Couldn't sleep so I got Grampa to bring me over so I could get some last minute practice in.'

She moved over to the mare, patting her neck for a moment before she turned back to her granddaughter. 'You think you two are ready?'

'We're going to have to be, aren't we girl?' She said with a soft sigh. 'We made it into the top ten. Even if we come last that's more than I could have wished for.'

'I don't think you'll come last.'

'Well, by tonight we'll see.' Maddie replied with a smile, resuming brushing her mare again. 'The first thing I'm doing when I get home is catching up on some sleep. I've never felt more exhausted my whole life.'

Abeline looked at her sympathetically. 'It's been a big few days for all of us.' She agreed. 'But seeing the look on your face yesterday when they announced the top ten was so worth it.'

She chuckled softly. 'I bet it was.'

'Maddie...' She started after a moment, running her hand down Dakota's face. 'We-we haven't spoken much lately, you've been so busy getting ready for this we haven't had a chance to talk. How are you going Maddie?'

'I'm okay.' Maddie looked over at her, managing a sad smile. 'When this is all over then I'll think about other things but for now, being here... being able to do this... Means more to me than anyone will ever know. No matter what happens I've got these memories to hold onto.' She paused for a moment, biting her lip. 'I just hope I can buy Dakota once this is all over.'

'Cordell mentioned you turned him down when he offered to help you buy her.'

She nodded as she switched which side of the mare she was grooming. 'Yeah... I can't expect Dad or you and Grampa for that matter to put money towards her when you've all given me so much already. It's not right to take any more. I either buy her with what I have or I don't buy her at all.' Her eyes began to water a little and she quickly wiped them on the back of her hand. 'Gonna break my heart to give her up though if I have to.'

'You two have such a bond.' Abeline said after a moment. 'Reminds me of my first horse. That mare would have jumped over the moon for me if I'd asked her.'

Maddie chuckled at that. 'Yeah, Bel and Dakota both would do that too. I'm sure glad though that Dakota is the polar opposite of Bel. If I'd been riding Bel yesterday I know I wouldn't have made it around that trail course.'

'If Dakota had been like Bel your father wouldn't have agreed to let you ride here.' Her phone rang with a notification and she pulled it out to check what it was. Everything was set. She quickly sent a short reply then put her phone back into her pocket. 'You mind putting her away for a moment? Got something to show you.'

'Really? I've got to get her brushed down-'

'It'll only take a moment.' She gave her the 'look' and after a moment, Maddie sighed.

'Alright. Alright.' Maddie quickly untied the mare and turned her loose into the stall, hanging the halter and lead rope up as she closed the door again. 'What is it?'

'Come on, this way.'

She frowned a little as Abeline led the way through the stable then as they came around a corner, her jaw dropped. The rest of her family were there holding posters like fans did at baseball games, Geri and Cassie standing with them. 'Oh... Oh my God! You-you all came to watch me?'

'We-we wouldn't have missed this for anything.' Cordell said with a smile, Maddie running to him to give him a hug.

'I-I can't believe you all came.' She said as she looked at them. 'When did you guys leave?'

'Four o'clock this morning.' Geri replied.

'Nice early, cold morning.' Cassie added. 'Cold, very cold morning at that.'

Maddie chuckled. 'I bet.'

'Considering that we never leave on time to go anywhere-' Stella interjected. 'I think we managed pretty well.'

'Well, none of us are exactly morning people.' August pointed out. 'Except maybe Gramps and Mawline.'

'And James ah-' Cordell added. 'James wishes he could be here but you've got the whole Austin Rangers division behind you Maddie girl. They're gonna be watching live along with us.'

'Oh, so no pressure then.' She said with a chuckle. 'Oh I can't believe you guys came all this way...'

Liam placed his arm around her shoulders. 'Like Cordi said, we wouldn't miss this.'

Maddie smiled at them all, tears in her eyes. 'Thank you all so much. You have no idea how much you all being here means to me.'

'Oh, we've got a fair idea, little one.' Bonham remarked, having joined Abeline during the conversation. 'You just go out there and we'll be cheering you on.'

'Think I'm going to have the biggest cheer group of anyone here.' She replied, everyone laughing at that. 'And I don't know about the rest of you but I'm starving. I think it's time we all get some breakfast before I get ready for the first class.'

The time for the first class of the day drew closer, Maddie attempting to stay calm as she readied the mare for the maneuvers class. All scores from the past classes weren't counted now for the final ten, the competitors going into the competition with clean slates. It all came down to this now, this class and the freestyle one later that afternoon. The performances they did in both these classes would be the determining factor in their scoring and ultimately, their placings.

When they were finally ready to head into the warm up arena, her entire family was there to see them off and wish her good luck. She was grateful for their support, still unable to believe that they'd all come all this way just to watch her compete. As the announcer requested that all trainers make their way to the warm up arena they exchanged hugs then Maddie started off with Dakota while her family made their way back to their seats.

The other trainers were warming up their horses as Maddie rode in and began to practice with Dakota. True to her nature the mare was calm and relaxed, compared to a couple of the other mustangs who were wound up like a coiled spring. Both Picasso and Blossom though were behaving well for their trainers and she kept an eye on them as much as she could. From what she'd seen, Blossom would make the perfect horse for Rose.

Maddie and Dakota were forth to go up to perform and as they waited at the gate while the previous team performed she could feel the butterflies in her stomach multiply. She was nervous, who wouldn't be? She took a deep breath as she ran her hand down the mare's neck, the previous team finishing their run and exited the arena. This was it. Once this class was over the freestyle performance was the last one to go.

The volunteer in charge of the gate smiled at them as she opened it for them, wishing them good luck for their run. Maddie smiled back as Dakota stepped willingly into the arena and she took another deep breath as their performance started.

Dakota smoothly transitioned into a trot when she asked her, the mare soft and collected in her movements. When they hit their mark she nudged her gently with her heels and she sped up into a canter, cantering down the middle of the arena. As they executed a perfect sliding stop she could hear the crowd cheering but didn't take notice, her attention fully on her mare. They stood for a moment and she gave her a pat then asked her to back up.

The mare backed up without any pressure on the reins at all, just feeling her rider's weight aids. Halting her again they went straight into a spin to the right then to the left and straight back into a canter again. Dakota tossed her head a little as they cantered an entire figure of eight around the arena, complete with proper lead changes and then as they cantered up the middle of the arena once more, she let her speed up into a gallop then executed another sliding stop and back up.
With the announcement that she had thirty seconds left and still with two maneuvers left to go she quickly turned the mare around and started back to the gate, asking Dakota to trot a side-pass to the right first then to the left. The announcer thanked them for their performance and she brought the mare back to a walk to exit the arena, a huge smile on her face as she ran her hand down the mare's neck.

Exhilarated from their ride she gave the mare a hug when she'd brought her to a halt, 'Good job girl. Well done.' Dakota turned her head to ask for her sugar cube and she chuckled softly as she pulled one from her pocket to give to her. 'Good girl.'

Maddie let out a sigh of relief as she sat up again, still patting her mare as Dakota crunched away at her treat. One class down, one to go.

When the class was completed all ten competitors were required back into the main arena for a time known as 'meet the mustangs' where the general public could come and meet the horses and ask questions of the trainers. A smile came to Maddie's face when she saw her folks coming over to see her, Dakota looking around with interest.

'Great run honey-' Cordell exclaimed as he gave her a hug. 'You two did great.'

She chuckled softly, smiling up at him. 'Thanks Dad.'

Her family all had a few words to say then after being with her for a short while, decided they'd go find some lunch. Mika chose to stay behind to help Maddie answer questions and such, quite a few fans coming over to meet them. Dakota was more than happy to meet these new people too, relishing in the attention that she was receiving. 'You're a regular attention seeker, ain't ya?' Maddie asked her softly as she scratched behind her ear, the mare having whinnied loudly when the little boy that had been patting her walked away with his parents to go see another horse.

'Someone's a diva.' Mika chuckled softly. 'I think she's enjoying this more than you.'

'If you haven't noticed, talking to strangers isn't exactly my forte.'

'But hey, you're doing good with that.' She encouraged. 'That little boy loved you answering his questions.'

'Kids I can talk to, no problem.' Maddie replied, Dakota again exploring her pockets with her lips in the hopes of finding something to eat. 'It's the adults that I have trouble with.'

'Maddie!'

At the sound of a child's excited cry she turned around, a smile coming to her lips as she saw Rose and her parents coming over. 'Rosie girl. Hey!' She knelt down to give the girl a hug, Rose giggling softly as she hugged her back. 'What are you doing here?'

'Mommy and Daddy brought me up to watch the horses.' She replied. 'You and Kota looked awesome out there! I know you both are gonna win.'

Maddie chuckled at that as she stood. 'You think we're going to win hey?'

Rose nodded decisively. 'You two are gonna win for sure.'

'Well, I don't know about that-'

'You used your birthday wish on it, right? Birthday wishes always come true if you believe in them. That's what Momma says at least.'

'I guess we'll just have to wait and see then-' She playfully tapped her on the nose and Rose giggled. 'Won't we?'

'Mmmhmm.'

Maddie turned to her parents. 'There's someone I'd like Rose to meet, if that's okay?'

Jenny nodded, having already organized prior with Maddie for Rose to meet the horse they were looking at. 'Do you want to go with Maddie, Rose?'

'Oh please, can I?'

'Of course honey.'

'Thanks Mom.'

Maddie held out Dakota's reins to Mika. 'Would you mind holding her for a moment?'

'No worries at all.' Mika replied as she took them. 'Just don't be too long.'

'We won't.' She promised, taking Rose's hand. 'This way Rose.'

'Who are we going to meet?' She questioned, looking up at Maddie as they walked away from Dakota. 'A friend of yours?'

'You could say that.' Maddie smiled, the two of them coming to a stop near the buckskin mare. 'Rose, this is Jessica and Blossom.'

Jessica smiled at the girl. 'Hi Rose.'

'Hi.' She giggled as the mare stepped closer to sniff her. 'Can I pat her?'

'Sure. She loves kids.'

'Hello.' Rose held out her hand to the mare and began laughing as Blossom nuzzled at her hair. 'I think she likes me.'

A huge smile was on Maddie's face as she watched the two of them, Jessica too smiling. 'I think she likes you too Rose.'

The little girl looked up at Jessica. 'Can I have a ride of her?'

'Sure. Up you go.'

Maddie watched with a smile as Jessica led the mare around slowly, Rose giggling loudly. Jenny came over to join her after a moment.

'What do you think?' She asked.

'I think it was love at first sight.' She replied with a chuckle. 'I've been watching how Blossom has been and I can say that you wouldn't find a safer first horse. Jessica has five children of her own so she's well used to them.'

'Look mommy! I'm riding a big pony.'

Jenny chuckled, waving back at Rose. 'I have a feeling this horse is coming home with us.'

'Good thing there's extra room on the float.' Maddie remarked.

'I can't thank you enough for your help with this.' She exclaimed as she turned back to the girl. 'I really appreciate you going to all this trouble for us.'

'Oh it was no trouble at all.' She assured her. 'And that smile on her face is more than enough payment for me. I think the two of them are going to get along beautifully.'

Silence fell for a moment as Maddie's thoughts turned to a subject of a more serious nature. 'I know it's probably not a good time to ask but have you spoken with Rose yet about me?'

Jenny shook her head. 'Not yet. I honestly don't know what to tell her.'

She nodded. 'Fair enough.'

'How have you been going anyway?'

'Alright so far, trying to manage the best I can.' Maddie replied honestly. 'That's all I can do really, I guess...' Her voice trailed off as she sighed softly. 'Surgery Wednesday then after that...' She shrugged. 'I'll just take it as it comes, one day at a time.'

'I know that it might be a lot to ask...' Jenny started after a pause. 'But would you consider talking to Rose? She might take it better if it came from you, an explanation as to why you've got to go to hospital for a time.'

She nodded. 'Alright, I'll talk to her. Not today though. Today I just want to focus on the good.'

She smiled sympathetically at her. 'I understand. I am so sorry that you're going through this Maddie. I wish there was something I could do to help.'

'Think everyone feels like that.' Maddie remarked sadly. 'But there's not much anyone can do except just be here for my family and I. We've been through so much already lately and I know my Dad is worried about how he's going to pay for my treatments... I just... It's not easy but then again, life isn't easy.' She took a look at her watch, realizing what the time was. 'I'm sorry but you'll need to excuse me. I want to let Dakota have some turn out time before we need to get ready for the freestyle this afternoon. Ah, Jessica will be able to answer any questions you have about Blossom and I'll catch up with you guys later.'

'Alright.' Jenny nodded. 'Thank you again so much for organizing this.'

Maddie smiled at her. 'No worries. I'm glad Rose likes her.'

Maddie left, Jenny pondering over what the young teen had said as she watched the trainer leading Rose around on the mare. Ever since Maddie had rescued Rose when the child had been lost she and her husband had hoped there was some way they could repay her for what she had done. As she thought it over a smile crept onto her lips. Maybe they had just found a way.

The afternoon passed by in a whirlwind of activity and before Maddie knew it, it was time to prepare Dakota for their final performance. Mika, Stella and August all wanted to assist in helping her get the mare ready and once they had finished grooming Dakota there wasn't a speck of dirt or sand to be seen on her. She looked utterly gorgeous and the mare knew it, arching her neck and snorting softly as Maddie placed the rhythm bead necklace around her neck.

After they had placed the rest of the beads into her mane and tail and also the tinsel hair extensions that Mika had given her, it was time to use the glitter stencils that Stella and August had brought for her. On either side of Dakota's rump beneath her hip numbers they painted on glitter stars, dark blue and silver. When they'd finished with that, Maddie grabbed the polo wraps and boots that her father had given her for her birthday and once she'd put them on her, Dakota was ready to go.

'You better go get yourself ready now.' Mika exclaimed as she untangled the last little knot from the mare's mane. 'I'll stay here with Dakota till you get back.'

'Right.' Maddie agreed nervously, turning to Stella and August. 'Thank you both so much for your help.' She said as she gave them both a hug.

'Well, good luck to you.' Stella replied after Maddie had stepped back. 'We'll be cheering for ya.'

'Yeah-' August added. 'Good luck, little sister.'

She chuckled at that, playfully punching his shoulder. 'Thanks, little brother.'

'Anytime sis, anytime.'

Stella and August headed out, Maddie grabbing the bag with her things in it from inside the locker and made her way through the crowded stable block to the ladies restroom. Other trainers were getting their horses ready and a couple people wished her good luck on her way past. Maddie smiled but made no verbal reply, too nervous to speak.

Finally she made it to the bathroom and sighed with relief as she closed the door on the noise and commotion going on outside. The bathroom was empty and silent, the perfect opportunity to take a moment to catch her breath before she headed out to warm Bel up. Making her way into an empty shower cubicle she began to change into her costume, her hands shaking a little as she struggled with her shirt buttons. God, she was nervous.

With an eye on the time she changed as quickly as she could into her dress and slipped into her black jodhpurs then put on her bolero jacket on over the top. Her best cowgirl boots completed her outfit and once she'd put them on everything else went back into the bag and she stepped out into the bathroom to fix up her hair.

Her long hair was pulled out of its braid and she quickly brushed it through then did a half ponytail to keep her fringe out of her face. Looking into the mirror she took a deep breath to help calm her down and then forced herself to smile. She could do this.

The stable block was a flurry of commotion as she stepped out again and headed back to Dakota, Mika giving the mare one last brush over as she approached. Seeing what Maddie was wearing, Mika's jaw dropped.

Maddie grinned, twirling around. 'What do you think?'

'You-you look gorgeous Maddie!' She exclaimed in awe. 'That outfit is beautiful.'

'Mawline made it for me.' She replied as she twirled around again, enjoying the swish of the dress around her ankles. 'For my birthday.'

'If I was one of the judges I'd give you top marks for the costume department. Let me look at that dress...'

She chuckled softly as Mika made her turn around once more, her friend looking over her outfit closely.

'Do you really need the jacket though?' Mika questioned after a moment. 'I mean, I think it'd look just as good without it.'

Maddie's smile faded, looking away from her friend. 'Have you ever seen me not wearing a long sleeved shirt?'

She thought for a moment. 'Come to think of it... No.'

'There's a reason for that.' She took a quick glance at the time on Mika's watch then quickly untied Dakota. 'But that's a conversation for another time.' She backed Dakota carefully into the aisle, preparing to lead her into the warm up arena. 'Would you mind bringing along my whips and helmet please?'

'Oh sure...' Mika gathered the requested items and followed her into the warm up arena.

'Just hold onto the whips for now, I don't need them yet.' Maddie remarked as she brought Dakota to a halt, holding a hand out to grab her helmet from her friend.

She nodded while Maddie put her helmet on. 'You going to give me a hint as to what your performance is going to be?'

'Nope.' She replied with a chuckle, doing up the chin strap. 'You'll just have to wait and see.'

'What music are you going to do it to?'

Placing the lead rope over Dakota's withers Maddie sprung onto the mare's back in one smooth motion. 'You'll just have to wait.'

'Hmph.' Mika replied, leaning against the fence. 'Not fair.'

Maddie laughed as she rode Dakota into the arena. 'You won't have long to wait.'

The competitors began to get called to go wait for their turn in the arena and by the time that they called her number to go join the line up, Maddie was as ready for her performance as she'd ever be. Coming out of the warm up arena she dismounted again and gathered her whips from Mika, her friend leaving to go find a seat in the grandstand with her family.

'Oh Maddie...'

Maddie smiled as she heard her fathers voice, turning to him as he walked over to her. 'What do you think?'

'It-it's beautiful.'

She chuckled softly. 'Mawline did good I reckon.'

'Yeah, yeah she did.' Cordell agreed. 'You look so beautiful honey.'

'Thanks.' Dakota nudged her gently with her muzzle and she gave the mare a pat. 'You'll be ready to bid on her for me, won't you?'

He nodded. 'I'll be ready honey. What's your limit?'

'Nine and a half.' She said with a soft sigh. 'Last time I checked before the online bids ended she was just over seven. If I get a third or fourth I'll have an extra two grand to add to that but I don't want to hold my breath for it. Everyone else... they've got so much more experience than me-' She motioned with her head towards the arena where one of the trainers was having a bunch of props set up. 'They can do such awesome stuff and-'

'M-Maddie.' Cordell interrupted gently, placing his hands on her shoulders. 'Don't compare yourself to them. You are going to do just fine. I know it.'

She smiled nervously at him. 'Oh god... I'm so nervous.'

He laughed softly, caressing her cheek gently in his hand. 'Just do your best out there sweetheart. That's all that matters.'

'I know.'

'I-I'm so proud of you for not giving up.' He continued after a moment. 'You could have given up but you didn't and here you are and that makes me so-so proud, honey.'

Maddie felt tears coming to her eyes and she wrapped her arms around him, Cordell hugging her back. 'I love you so much dad.'

'I love you too baby girl.' He replied as he held her close then kissed her gently on the cheek. 'I think they're waiting for you. Everything will turn out just fine, you'll see.''

She nodded, seeing one of the organizers motioning for her to head over to the gate to wait for her turn. 'I-I better go.'

'Good luck.'

'Thanks.'

Maddie lingered for a moment watching Cordell walk away then turned her attention to her mare once more. Giving Dakota a pat she walked up to the gate to wait, occupying herself with running her fingers through the mare's long mane.

Oh gosh, she was so nervous...

Just breathe. She reminded herself, willing herself to take a few deep breaths so she'd calm down. Breathe. You've got this.

The previous trainer finished his performance and exited the arena, the two of them exchanging pleasantries as he rode past. In the arena a few people were quickly disassembling his props and removing them, Maddie stroking Dakota's neck gently as they waited. Her eyes began to wander around the coliseum, the grandstands packed with hundreds of people. Finally she spotted her family and waved to them, everyone waving back at her. You can do this.

The arena was finally cleared and the announcer began to introduce them, Maddie taking a few more deep breaths before she started to untie Dakota's halter. This was it. No turning back now. The halter was slipped off the mare's face and handed to an assistant, Maddie running a hand up and down Dakota's face. 'This is it, my girl.' She spoke softly, Dakota's ears flicking forward at her voice. 'Let's show them what we can do.'

Stepping back in position beside Dakota, Maddie nodded for the volunteer to start the music. After a moment the music began and they started walking into the arena as the introduction played.

(Take An Angel By The Wing - Sia)

Oh so, She asked the mare to trot, the two of them trotting together down the middle of the arena as the words began.Your wounds they show

I know you have never felt so alone Maddie lent back, asking the mare to come to a halt with her body language. Dakota stopped smoothly beside her and as a bridge played between the verses she asked the mare by tapping her gently with the whip on her back to perform a side-pass towards her.

But hold on, She stopped, Dakota waiting as she stepped back behind her, asking the mare to back up towards her with the gentle tapping of the whip on her rump. head up, Dakota lowered her head, backing up smoothly until she asked her to stop. be strong

Oh hold on, Maddie whistled softly and Dakota turned around, trotting the few paces that were between them until she reached her shoulder and stopped. hold on until you hear them come

Here they come, She began running, the mare trotting alongside her calmly as they commenced a circle. Oh With a flick of her whip she asked the mare to canter, Dakota bouncing in time to the music as she cantered slowly beside her
Take an angel by the wings
Beg her now for anything
Beg her now for one more day
Maddie stopped and asked the mare for a lead change, sending her around her in the opposite direction.
Take an angel by the wings
Time to tell her everything
Ask her for the strength to stay

As the bridge played into the next verse, Maddie brought the mare back to a trot, changing directions with her in time with the music. Dakota tossed her head, the bells in her mane and around her neck jingling softly with the movement. Maddie smiled as she asked Dakota to change direction again, the two of them dancing together almost.

When the beat changed, Maddie quickly began running backwards, asking the mare to canter towards her. With a shake of her head and a little buck of joy Dakota began to canter towards her.

You can, you can do anything, anything
Maddie raised her whips suddenly as she stopped, Dakota sliding to a stop as the crowd began to applaud.
You can do anything Dakota reared up high as she flicked the whips in the air, lowering them again in time with the song and the mare came down to the ground again.
You can, She lifted the whips again, asking the mare to rear once again for her, this time taking a few steps back. Dakota stepped towards her two steps then as she lowered the whips, returned to the ground. you can do anything, anything
Maddie smiled, giving the mare a quick pat before asking her to go into a spin.
You can do anything
You can, you can do anything, anything
Dakota stopped spinning at the soft whistle she made then she asked her to spin in the opposite direction.
You can do anything
You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything
As the music paused for a second, Maddie brought Dakota to a halt again once more, patting the mare again as she readied her for the next trick they would perform.
Look up, She began to gently tap behind the mare's leg to ask her to lie down. call to the sky
Oh, Dakota laid down, another round of applause coming from the crowd. look up and don't ask why, Maddie swung a leg over the mare's back then gently tapped her with the whip to get her to rise. Oh

Dakota stood, Maddie giving her another pat for a second then gently asked her with her heels to jump into a canter.
Just take an angel by the wings
They cantered around in a large circle to the beat of the music
Beg her now for anything
Beg her now for one more day
With a gentle seat cue and a tap of her heel she asked the mare to change her lead, commencing a figure of eight as the crowd applauded again.
Take an angel by the wings
Time to tell her anything
Ask her for the strength to stay

With the drum beats leading into the chorus Maddie sped Dakota up into a gallop, galloping around the arena in a figure of eight, dropping her whips off at the gate as they went past. As the music prepared to go into the chorus she turned the mare sharply and they began galloping up the center of the arena.

You can, Maddie sped Dakota up again, the mare responding with a burst of speed. you can do anything, She lent back, Dakota slamming the breaks on to execute a perfect sliding stop. anything
With the beat of the music they did a roll back, Maddie asking Dakota to once again stretch out into a gallop
You can do anything
You can, Maddie lent back again, Dakota sliding to a stop once more at her cue. you can do anything, anything
'Good girl.' She gave the mare another pat, taking a moment to ready themselves for their next movement.
You can do anything
At the touch of her heel, Dakota went into a spin to the right, Maddie stretching her arms out to the sides as the crowd applauded.
You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything
Releasing the pressure from the mare's side Dakota stopped abruptly then with touch from her other heel, began to spin to the left.
You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything

The beat changed as they came into the climax of the song, Maddie bringing Dakota to a halt for a split second before asking her to canter again.

You can, you can do anything, anything She asked Dakota to change her lead, more applause coming from the crowd as Dakota executed a perfectly flying change. You can do anything
You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything

The beat changed again and with it, Maddie asked the mare to speed up once more. Arms stretched out to the sides she asked the mare to gallop, Dakota galloping around the arena as fast as she could go as the crowd erupted with cheers.

You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything
You can, you can do anything, anything
You can do anything

As the song came to an end, Maddie brought Dakota to another sliding stop to close, leaning down over her neck to hug the mare as the last beats of the song faded away. Tears poured down her cheeks as the crowd cheered and applauded, Maddie holding her mare tight. They'd done it. They'd done their performance and flawlessly.

Sitting up once more, Maddie wiped her eyes and regained her composure then asked the mare to walk on. Dakota stepped forward calmly to exit the arena as the announcer thanked them for their performance, Maddie running her hand down the mare's neck as the applause died down once more. 'Well done girl...' She whispered softly, her voice thick with emotion. 'Well done.'

One of the volunteers came to meet her as she halted Dakota near the gate and she dismounted, haltering her once more before she led the mare out. She didn't stop until she had returned to the arena, not trusting herself to speak when the other trainers complemented their run. 'I-I'm never going to forget that ride.' She said softly to Dakota, her voice breaking as she ran her hand up the mare's forehead, the mare flicking her ears forward to listen to her. 'Thank you Dakota...' She paused as she felt her eyes watering again. 'For helping me make the memory of a lifetime.'

Maddie didn't have a chance to catch up with her family after the freestyle performance, having to wait with the other competitors to go back into the ring for the awards ceremony and the auction. While the other trainers joked around and were involved in deep conversation, Maddie just stood by herself with her horse, trying her best not to cry. How could she let this wonderful mare go if she couldn't buy her? If she lost her now it would be like someone ripped her heart out...

'You okay?'

She looked up to see Sam mounted on Picasso nearby and nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. 'I-I'm okay.'

Sam dismounted, holding onto Picasso's reins as she walked closer to Maddie. 'After a run like that anyone would be happy. That was one of the best performances I've ever seen.'

'Dakota worked her heart out for me.' Maddie replied softly, rubbing the mare's forehead as she felt tears coming to her eyes again. 'Your performance was good too.'

She smiled. 'Thanks.'

She nodded, turning her attention back to her horse.

'Something is wrong, isn't it?' The young woman questioned after a moment. 'What is it?'

'I don't want to let her go.' She whispered. 'I only have so much money to buy her at the auction and when they stopped the online bidding she's already at seven and a half...'

Sam nodded in understanding. 'I've done this a few times now and it sure is hard to give them up.'

'Yeah...' Maddie swallowed the lump in her throat. 'Only lost my first horse a few weeks back to colic too... I just hope that her bids don't go any higher.'

She was about to reply when the announcement came for all the competitors to return to the arena, the rest of the trainers mounting up. 'Well, I wish you the best of luck and I hope that you do get to keep her.'

She smiled sadly at her. 'Thank you. Good luck to you as well.'

Sam rode off to join the line up and Maddie mounted up once more, dropping the mare's halter and lead rope off to one of the assistants on her way past. The crowd applauded for the competitors entering the arena then fell quiet again as the announcer went over the proceedings for the rest of the evening. The fan favorite award would be chosen first before the rest of the results were announced, a prize worth three thousand dollars. Whichever competitor got cheered for the loudest would receive the prize.

They started asking competitors to come forward and when they were called, they would get their horse to perform a trick or something. When Maddie's name was called she asked Dakota to bolt forward into a gallop, the crowd cheering as she brought her into a sliding stop then into a spin on either side. Returning to the line up she held her breath as the last few trainers were called forward, crossing her fingers in hope. If they got the fan favorite that would be an extra three thousand dollars to put towards buying Dakota.

'We're gonna need Samantha Brown back out front-' The announcer requested after they'd gone through all ten, Sam riding her horse forward once more as the crowd cheered again. 'And Maddie Walker.'

Maddie rode Dakota forward again, this time asking the mare to rear up as the crowd cheered for them.

'Here's our two finals here everybody. Samantha Brooks and Maddie Walker. We're gonna do it again. Here we go. Ladies and gentlemen, we bring forward Samantha and Picasso.' Sam got her gelding to spin for the crowd, waving to them as she stopped her horse back in line with Maddie's again. 'Alright, Maddie and Dakota!'

Maddie asked Dakota to gallop again, galloping a half circle around the vacant half of the arena then brought her mare back to a halt beside Sam's gelding.

'Ladies and Gentleman, this year's fan favorite, receiving the Cut Above buckle and three thousand dollars is-'

Maddie held her breath, Sam holding hers too in anticipation.

'Maddie Walker!'

At the tap of her heels, Dakota reared up high as she waved to the crowd and she smiled seeing her family standing up to applaud them. Dakota came back down to the ground after a moment and Maddie hugged the mare tight, her face radiant with happiness.

'Well done.' Sam congratulated her as one of the volunteers came over to present Maddie with her buckle and check. 'You two deserved to win.'

Maddie smiled at her, not trusting her voice to reply as she patted and hugged her mare again. Sam rode back to the line and after she'd received her buckle she rode back to join the line up too to await the official results of the competition. With the extra three thousand she hoped she'd have enough now to buy the mare.

'Well folks, now, are you ready to hear the actual champions of the evening and find out who will be crowned this year's Mustang Makeover winner? We're gonna start at the bottom and work our way to the top. Everyone's going to receive a ribbon and a thousand dollars from tenth till third. Everyone gets a cheque-'

Oh please- Maddie begged inwardly as the announcer kept talking. Please just get to the results already.

'Everyone gets a ribbon. Folks, we start at the bottom with a hundred and six points. From Bozeman in Montana, John Rictor!'

As John went forward to receive his ribbon, Maddie kept patting Dakota and tried to keep herself together. Once the awards had been given out they would go straight into the auction and she just hoped and prayed that she had enough money to buy her mare. More than anything in the world she just wanted to be able to keep her mare. They had a bond. A connection that though was different from what she had with Bel, was just as special.

Other trainers kept being called forward and by the time the fourth place winner had been announced, Maddie still hadn't been called forward. Jessica received fourth, leaving just her and Sam and a gentleman trainer from Oklahoma. He was called forward to receive third place and her heart skipped a beat. It was just down to her and Sam now and the two of them exchanged nervous smiles. 'Good luck.'

'To you too.' Sam replied with a smile.

'Folks,' The announcer began once the third place winner had been given his ribbon and had his photo taken. 'the top two in this competition were over twenty points ahead-'

Maddie crossed her fingers, holding her breath.

'both of them, then their nearest competitor and you had it right.' He paused for a moment to build suspense. 'Your reserve champion is, with one hundred and fifty two points, Samantha Brooks.'

Her hand came to her mouth as she realized that she was the winner, Sam stepping forward to receive her ribbon. They'd done it. Against all the odds they had done it. They had won!

'Ladies and gentlemen-' The announcer continued. 'as she is presented with a cheque for three thousand dollars and a beautiful Cut Above buckle, you know who the champion is. It was your favorite tonight as well. With a total score of one hundred, fifty two and a half points, The Champion by just half a point and going home with five thousand dollars and a beautiful blue ribbon, it is Maddie Walker!'

The crowd erupted with cheers, Maddie hugging Dakota tight as they applauded then she rode forward to receive her ribbon and cheque. It passed by in a blur, Maddie still in shock that they had won. She and Dakota had won. She was handed a cheque and another buckle, being instructed to hold them up for the photographers. The Makeover organizers came to join in and have their photo taken, Jane Johnson being one of them.

Her entire family too came down from the grandstand, Maddie showered with hugs and plenty of well wishes. She could only sit there in shock though still, so utterly surprised that they had won. That she, the underdog of the entire competition and with the least amount of experience, had come out on top, beating even the most experienced trainers.

Things passed by in a blur and it soon was time for the auction to commence. Now with winning both the fan favorite and first place she had an extra eight thousand dollars with which to buy Dakota. She just prayed that would be enough.

They were seventh to go up, both Blossom and Picasso going up before her. Blossom had been placed eighth overall but there wasn't too much interest in the mare and she ended up being sold to the Young's for the sum of four thousand, five hundred. Picasso on the other hand, being the reserve champion, had his price bumped up because of it. Mika was able to purchase him however for the grand total of eight thousand, seven hundred and she was ecstatic for her friend. Picasso and Mika would make a great team together and Sam was thrilled to know that he would go to a good home.

The most expensive horse for the night so far was the horse trained by Casey Silverman, the trainer from Oklahoma who had received third. The sorrel gelding sold for over seventeen thousand, having received quite a lot of interest from ranchers looking for a solid, dependable and cowy ranch horse.

As the horse ahead of them sold for eight thousand, Maddie kept her fingers crossed that she'd be able to buy her mare. Cordell would be bidding on her behalf since she was under eighteen and she just hoped that she had enough. If Dakota's bidding went over sixteen and a half though that was it. That was all she had.

'Hip number Seventeen.' The announcer declared as the previous horse was walked back over to the side of the arena. 'And tonight's Champion, Dakota. Trained by Maddie Walker.'

This was it.

Maddie took a deep breath and rode Dakota to the auctioneer and his assistant.

'Dakota is a six year old mare rounded up from the Corral B herd in Colorado. She has competed both in trail-' The auctioneer read out as the horse was brought to a halt next to him. 'And in a few small rodeos. This mare has experience as a working ranch horse but as you've seen here tonight, is also trained for liberty and tricks. Maddie, tell us a little more about what you've got here.'

Her hand shook a little as she was handed the microphone, taking a deep breath as she tried to keep herself together. 'Ah... Yeah, Dakota here has been ridden by both beginners and experienced riders, she's quiet and reliable but the best home would be with someone who knows about horses. She loves cattle work, has good cow sense and knows how to run a barrel pattern but also has great potential as a liberty performer.' She paused for a moment to swallow the lump in her throat. 'I-I would love to be able to keep her, take her home and keep training her and see how far she could go with liberty and rodeo.'

'Alright, thank you Maddie.' He replied as she handed the microphone back. 'Alright, here we go...'

Maddie bit her lip as the bidding started at seven and a half thousand dollars from the online auction, praying that it wouldn't go too high. She looked over at her Dad, Cordell giving her a decisive nod that he was ready to bid for her. The high bid was at eight and a half now, tough competition between two people a few seats behind where her family were sitting. Please... Please...

It hit nine, then ten, Maddie holding her breath as it went through eleven. Cordell was yet to place a bid, waiting until one of the two gave up so he didn't drive the price up any higher. When they hit twelve and a half, one of the two dropped out and it was then that Cordell entered the bidding.

Dakota knew something was up, watching the whole proceedings with great interest as the auctioneer rattled off numbers faster than Maddie could comprehend what he was saying. Through thirteen, into fourteen thousand now and as they closed in on fifteen thousand, her heart skipped a beat. She couldn't go any higher than sixteen and a half. That was it. If it went over, she'd lose her. She didn't have a choice.

Through fifteen and into sixteen, tears coming to her eyes as the bid landed on sixteen thousand, seven hundred in favor of the opposing bidder. No... She forced herself to keep it together as the bidding went through seventeen thousand into eighteen, not focusing anymore on who was bidding. She had told Cordell that sixteen and a half was the absolute highest that they could pay and the bid was now sitting at nineteen thousand, eight hundred. She'd lost her.

'Sold.' The auctioneer finally declared once there were no further bids. 'Going home for twenty thousand dollars.'

Twenty thousand dollars.

Maddie's eyes were blurred with tears as she turned Dakota around, walking her out of the arena once more. Though she was supposed to stay behind until the auction was completed no one stopped her, the teen riding out of the coliseum into the night.

She'd lost her.

Dakota had been sold to someone else.

Her heart felt like it had been ripped in two and she hardly took notice of where Dakota was headed as the mare walked into the night. She couldn't believe that she'd sold for twenty thousand dollars. Twenty thousand for a horse only a hundred and thirty days off the range was absolutely crazy. Insane. Unheard of but yet, that was the sum that the mare had been sold for. Why? What made Dakota so special that someone would buy her for twenty thousand dollars? Yes, the mare was absolutely stunning with perfect conformation and a temperament to die for but still, twenty thousand dollars?

Maddie finally became aware that the mare had come to a halt and she slid off her back, collapsing to the ground in sobs. She couldn't believe that she'd lost her. That Dakota had been sold to someone else. After the high she had been on after being declared the winner the low she was in reached a new level. She hit rock bottom, absolute rock bottom.

Her arms hugging her knees in close to her chest, her face buried in her arms, she cried. She couldn't keep it in anymore. Everything came pouring out like a tidal wave, everything she'd been trying so hard to hold in. She'd cried every night silently into her pillow since being diagnosed with her brain tumor but had never cried over it like this. Now she just cried for everything. For losing the ranch, for Skylar, for her cancer and the fact that she was dying, for losing Dakota. She cried for it all uncontrollably.

Dakota sniffed at Maddie curiously, the mare wondering what was going on. Though she wore no halter or bridle and was free to wander off if she so pleased she didn't, choosing instead to stand beside her girl. The sound of someone walking towards them though caught her attention and she snorted, her head lifting as a flashlight was shone in their direction. Someone was coming towards them.

'Maddie...' Cordell dropped to his knees beside his daughter, taking her in his arms. 'Maddie honey... It's okay... It's okay...'

Maddie cried louder as wrapped her arms around him, her face buried in his jacket.

'Ssssh... Maddie...' His heart broke hearing her crying. Maddie had never cried like this before. Carefully he un-clipped her helmet so she could catch a breath then placed it aside, holding her tight. 'Maddie... It's okay... It's okay sweetheart...' She was hyperventilating now, the teen unable to take a breath she was crying so hard. 'Maddie, Maddie listen. You've got to calm down.' Cordell spoke firmly but gently. 'Breath honey. Come on.' She seemed to have heard him for she made an effort to try and catch her breath, her cries turning into distressed wheezing. 'That's a girl...' He comforted, still holding her tight. Placing a kiss on her hair he rested his chin atop her head, rubbing her back as he kept speaking to her in soft comforting tones.

Finally her cries ceased, Maddie laying in his arms totally exhausted. 'Dad...'

'I'm here baby girl...' Cordell replied to her. 'I'm here... It's okay. You're okay.'

'She... I-I lose her.' She managed to get out as she caught her breath. 'I lost-lost Dakota.'

'No honey. No you haven't.'

'But-but she sold... sold for twenty grand.'

'Maddie-Maddie honey.' He said softly, pushing her away from him gently. 'Maddie, look at me.'

Maddie finally looked up at him in the flashlight, rivers of tears down her cheeks.

'Maddie-' Cordell wiped her face with the back of his hand. 'I brought Dakota. We-we brought her.'

It took a moment for what he had said to sink in and when it did, fresh tears came to her eyes. 'You... We.. We-you... You brought Dakota?'

He nodded.

'H-how? She-she sold for t-twenty grand... I-I only had sixteen and-and a half.'

'Maddie, honey...' He started softly. 'Seeing you-you and that mustang... The bond that you two have. There-there was no way your grandparents and I could just stand by and see someone else buy her. I know you wanted to buy her on your own but we-we made up the shortfall. Mama, Daddy, Liam and I.' He tucked a lock of her hair that had worked loose out of her half ponytail back behind her ear. 'Dakota is yours sweetie pie. She's yours and no one can take her from you now.'

'R-really?'

Cordell nodded.

Fresh tears started running down her cheeks, tears of happiness this time as she hugged her father again. 'T-thank you.'

He placed his cheek against her head as he held her tight, swallowing back the lump in his throat. 'And that... that's not all.'

After a moment she looked up at him, wiping her eyes on the back of her hand. 'What?'

'Albert and his wife.' He started softly. 'They-they want to pay for your treatments honey.'

'What?' Maddie questioned in surprise.

'Rose's parents want to pay for your treatment.' Cordell repeated. 'They-they heard of another treatment, something that might be able to help you and they want to pay for your surgery. This-this treatment that they know of, it's new and experimental but they say that there's been great success with it.'

'What-what does that mean? Why would they offer to do something like this?'

'Because of what you did for Rose, for saving their daughter.'

'We... we can't accept charity. It wouldn't be right.'

A smile came to his lips hearing that. 'Maddie girl, you've caught the Walker pride that's for sure.'

She chuckled softly. 'What did you tell them?'

'I told them yes.' Cordell replied. 'I-I know it goes against everything I-we stand for about handouts but Maddie, if this treatment gives you even the slightest chance of beating this cancer then I'm not going to turn the opportunity down. They want to do this for us. For you.'

Maddie sniffled back another sob, wiping her eyes again. 'I-I don't... They-they would really do this for me?'

He nodded. 'They care about you Maddie. They want to help and this is a way of them being able to repay you for all you've done for them.'

'I guess... I guess then a thank you to them is in order.'

'It would be a start, yes.' Cordell wiped the last stray tears from her cheeks. 'I told you everything would work out in the end, didn't I?'

Maddie nodded after a moment. 'You did.'

'Come on then.' He got to his feet, offering a hand to Maddie to help her up. 'Let's get your girl back to her stall.'