Double

Seeing the mare start to shy away, Dylan’s eyes widen. “Ashlee! Don’t let her...” Too late. He watched as Moonbeam took off for home, and had to keep a steady hand on Sharpshooter to keep him from following. He was tempted to go after her, but there was no guarantee he could catch her, and it might endanger both horses. Not to mention, he couldn’t leave Ashlee stranded. 

Looking back at her, he was about to roll his eyes, but stopped as he saw the look on her face. His own expression softened, and he shook his head. “Won’t be the last time either. Happens to the best of us.” 

He thought for a moment, considering his options, and dreading what her mom or Eric might think when Moonbeam beat them back. Steering Sharpshooter closer, he stopped by Ashlee, took his foot out of his stirrup and offered her a hand. “Come on.” Once she was up sitting behind him, he glanced over his shoulder. “Hang on. I don’t want them worrying you got thrown when Moonbeam shows up without you.” 

Sharpshooter was raring to go anyway, so had no complaints when Dylan directed him into a lope back down the path. Dylan kept a steady hand on him while making sure Ashlee was keeping her seat behind him as well. The last thing he needed was to be accused of letting something happen, especially after Eric’s little speech. His worst fear was having a repeat of the last time something unexpected had happened and he’d been accused of taking advantage of Ashlee. Maybe this hadn’t been such a good idea after all.