by Bonnie
Disclaimer: The characters and situations of the TV program
"Big Valley" are the creations of Four Star/Republic Pictures and
have been used without permission. No
copyright infringement is intended by the author. The ideas expressed in this story are copyrighted to the author.
His hand worked in
rhythmic motion as the brush worked its charm on the black coat. The brushing of the midnight fur had been
therapeutic for him ever since he was a child working at the Strawberry Livery.
He could always do his best thinking as he transformed the rough disheveled
coat into fine silk. The present was no
different then the past as he found himself pondering the gift before him.
The equine that
stood at attention was going to be a gift for someone special in his life. It was important he look his best for the
presentation that would take place in just a few hours. His talented eye for horseflesh was in awe
of the beautiful black stallion that had an undeniable presence about him. And standing at fifteen hands it was evident
his power and grace would safely carry his brother both at work and play. The
enormous speed he possessed
would make him a formidable opponent to defeat in a race.
The first time his
blue eyes saw the stallion was at an auction he had attended. He knew from that first second the animal
could carry out the difficult task before him.
His big brother had sadly retired his beloved horse Coco, and he was
unable to open his heart and soul to any other horse he rode. But this animal appeared to demand the
challenge set before him. Heath knew
the bond between man and horse was the lifeline for a cowboy. He also knew this
horse could and would one day become his brother’s newest lifeline. At first it would be difficult
between the pair as loyalties would be questioned, and guilt would be
formed. But in time, acceptance and
forgiveness would be delivered, if only the horse had the patience to wait out
the storm.
Heath returned the
curry brush to the bin and fed the stallion an apple. He smiled as he thought of the various reactions his brother
might offer when presented with his gift.
Nick had given Charger to Heath as a peace offering between them. Those early days were difficult, but they helped form the
unbreakable bond they shared today. It
all began with a brother’s gift that said more than words could deliver. Now it was time to return that same message.
The time had come
for the presentation. The hazel eyes
appeared stunned with the knowledge the gift represented. But the cowboy’s natural instinct with
horses was blown away with the stature the animal held. Nick’s calloused hand felt the rippling
muscles in the stallion’s back. His
heart fluttered as he stared into its clear brown eyes. The connection was made. The raven head
turned to the side, breaking the connection, but not before the horse made his
mark on the battered soul. The hazel
eyes caught a glimpse of his old friend.
They would think he was crazy if he told them it felt as if Coco offered
his blessing. A smile curved on his
lips as he turned to stare at his brother.
With a tear in his eye Nick smiled his thanks. A lop-sided smile was returned.
Heath stole a
glance at Coco; he too saw the approval in the old horse’s eyes. They both knew the tall dark rancher they
loved deserved only the best and the ebony stallion would need to be the best…especially
in the wake of the finest cutting horse in the valley; Nick’s beloved Coco.
THE END
Dedicated to Peter Breck who turned 76 years young
on Sunday, March 13, 2005! Happy
Birthday, Peter!