Lost sight, not heart

[Alex Lovasz]

When she got in he said her name and she turned her attention to him. He was her main concern right now. She started the engine and he continued. She smiled and leaned over to kiss him. "No need to thank me.. this is what i'm here for." She leaned back to her seat and Drove off. She wouldn't ever let Anthony fall. She wouldn't let him crumble. She knew he ws strong maybe not invinsible like he desired. But he could take a lot more then any other guy she had known. But this pain was insane. No person she knew alive could take on this. Sure maybe if they absolutely had to but Anthony was handling it way better then anyone... despite the fact that he tried to do it with out her. But he just needed to realise wether he wanted to or not... He was just going to have to do eveything with her. Good and Bad. That was just how it was going to be.

She appreciated him submitting. She understood that must be a very difficult thing. With his whole pride thing. She knew most guys had an issue with that but his seemed to i bit more then usual. But she understood to the best of her ability.. Guys had their pride... and Girls had ther... worry. The ride their was quiet. And she understood that. He was probably in unbearable pain. And She didn't expect him to talk with that on him.She helped him to the door just to get more news... After the light flicked on A big smile appeared on Alex's face to see Ale's face but then she looked her over... only to be surprised again. She looked down at Alessandra's stomach. Her eyes widened. "KEKE!!!! Whyd didn't you tell me!?!?!" But then she felt Anthony pull away from her arms. She looked aver at him and he leaned up against the railing. She didn't say anything and turned back to Keke.

"Nevermind that." She said as she stepped closer to her friend and wrapped her in a hug. "Gosh its been to long" She pulled away. And looked her up and down. She looked great, pregnant... but great. She was glowing that was for sure. She had missed so much. She was glad they were going to live together that way they had plenty of time to catch up. She wasn't expecting her to be here so soon... she hadn't even cleaned the house... Wait a second how did she even get in? "Wait how did you get in?" She thingyed her head to the side. She was sure she locked the door and she knew she hadn't sent Keke a key. And she was pretty sure she hadn't climbed through a window. Not in her condition anyways. She looked so far along... How did Alex not know about this.

Anthony stated he was going to go and her head jerked in his direction. She put her hand on her hip and with her other hand pulled out his keys from her pocket. "Where ya gunna go without these? Anthony you can't drive home... Its... to late stay her tonight." She did her best to cover it up. Why he really was going to stay. When was he going to learn she was always right? Well that wasn't true but she was more right then he was most of the time anwyas. She stepped over to him and realised she wasn't being very polite. "oops... Anthony this is Keke.. Alessandra... Alessandra this is Anthony." She said Keke at first but that was a family nick name.. She had gotten so used to calling her that it was hard not to.

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Alessandra smiled when she opened the door. Alex and well she honestly didn't know who the guy was but from the looks of the way her arm was around him and his around hers they were pretty close.. You leave for a few years and look what happens your best friend gets a boyfriend. Well she didn't think she wouldn't but... Alex was always working she never thought she would alow herself to have time for that. But apparantly she did and they seemed pretty friendly to each other if you catch my drift. But he pulled away and Alex actually saw her. She laughed at her response.. Some how she just new that Alex would be the one to congradulate her. She was her best friend. and her greatest supporter.

Alex wrapped her in a hug and Alessandra couldn't wip the smile from her face. "I know way to long" She hugged back. And looked Alex up and down. She looked great.. and rather attractive.. no wonder she managed to snag up this guy. She looked over to the guy. He was rather attractive himself. She guessed they just went out... which wasn't hard to tell. But she had no clue about them... Good thing they had a while.... so she thought. She laughed as she asked how she got in. "Alex.. you always hide the ley in the same place.. Just like the house back home..." She waited and then symulainiously they both said. "In the planter." They laughed, just like the old days.

Anthony said he was going to go and Alessandra looked his way. She really hoped she didn't mess up any plans they already had... Obviously if he said he was going to go he they didn't live together. Besides she always knew alex didn't like to live with a guy.. unles she knew they were strictly friends. And Alex wasn't one to go back on her standards. She stayed quiet... to the best she could but she couldn't help but to laugh when Alex jingled the keys. She was the most persistant person Keke knew. And if she had already made up her mind on something it was extremely difficult to get her to change it.

She introduced them and Alessandra smiled. "Nice to meet you... I wish i could sya i've heard a lot about you but i honestly can't" She shot a glare at Alex. Only playing of course. The thunder roared and she shivered. She say Alex.. Alex could handle things way better then Alessandra could. But she knew.. just because of their close bond that she was cold. Even after several years she still knew Alex better then anyone. "Lets get inside its getting chilly" She stepped back leaving the opening a little more.. open. In other words she moved her belly out of the way so both Anthony and Alex could walk past her.

[Charlie Parker]

Anthony winced inwardly when Alex, true to his expectations, pulled his keys out of her pocket and made the point that he couldn't go anywhere without them. Why did she have to be so smart? Sure he could probably have taken them from her, considering he was a guy and guys were generally stronger than girls, but not only was he in no condition to do so presently, but he had also determined that whatever Alex said would be law. As much as he would have liked to go, there would be no argument from him. He sort of looked a bit dejected for a moment, but the expression quickly faded, and he smiled as he was introduced to Alessandra.

He was apparently better at holding himself together when there were other people around. He stepped forwards without even so much as a trace of a limp even though the pain was still very much there, and extended his hand towards her. Nice to meet you as well. He said rather brightly, a complete transformation having taken place since he and Alex were in the truck. He didn't appear to be in pain, his voice was perfectly normal and just as jovial as always, he wasn't limping...it was all normal, and if you hadn't seen him before, you would never know that he was in any pain at all. He was good at pretending.

When Alessandra stepped aside to let them in past her, Anthony stayed where he was and waited for Alex and Alessandra to go in first. Ladies first...yeah, it was old fashioned, but again...Anthony knew how to treat a girl right and he had always let them go first, it was just his natural reaction. Besides, if Alex's neighbor was still watching him, he'd probably have a fit if he saw Anthony go in first and leave the girls out to freeze...not that he would ever do that anyway but still. Even if he was in extreme pain, he was going to wait. Besides, Alessandra didn't know that he was in pain, and he intended on keeping it that way.

If Alex wanted to tell Alessandra about it, he was totally fine with that...he figured Alessandra would be asking how they met and Alex would have to tell her what had happened. He would very much prefer that she tell her when he wasn't in the room though. He hated people's pity, and he always got it when people were told what happened. He rode a blind horse on a race track, and the consequences were pain, withdrawals, and the most perfect girl on the planet. He could live with that. Alex sort of canceled out the other parts anyway. If he hadn't gotten in that accident, he probably would never have told her that he loved her, and none of this might have happened. So as long as he had Alex, he could deal with the pain and withdrawals.

When they had all stepped back into the house, Anthony swung the door closed behind him and waited for Alex to decide what to do with them. She now had two unexpected guests, and would have to figure out where to put the both of them. Since Anthony knew he wouldn't be able to get out of staying here tonight, he figured he might as well just give up and appear to be happy about the whole situation. He wasn't exactly upset about it really...he just hated having to be taken care of. He wasn't a needy person, and usually got along fine...but Alex insisted, and he couldn't say no...and even if he did say no, she still had the keys and there was no way he was walking. He wouldn't mind at all if he just stayed on a couch for the night...he quite regularly ended up there at home anyway.

After riding as much as he did and otherwise physically and mentally exhausting himself, he would often times come home and just crash on the couch as soon as he walked in the door. Of course, his two dogs often ended up on top of him, considering they usually slept next to him on the bed and there wasn't room for them to be next to him on the couch. He surprisingly never woke up when they climbed up there, which was impressive considering one was a full grown Burmese Mountain Dog and the other was an Akita puppy...a pretty heavy load when you combined their weights. I guess that would better show just how exhausted he was...100+ pounds couldn't stir him from his sleep.

[Alex Lovasz]

Alex smiled. Anthony was very good at fooling people. Course he couldn't fool her.. Nope not one bit. But she had to admit that he was a pretty good actor. There was no way Keke would suspect a thing. Sure eventual She would find out. But Keke wasn't exactly the feel bad for you type of person. Sure she would say "oh man i'm sorry" But then she would add. "sucks to be you" She had a cruel sense of humor like Alex. They were the two that would have coffee outside. And hear an ambulance. Then one of them would say oh no an ambulance! and the other would say. You know what that means? And the other would nod. Then they'd both say. Somebody must be dying and they would laugh yes they were both very cold hearted. Not very sympathetic at all. So needless to say Keke would be the last person to feel sorry for Anthony.

Alessandra stepped aside and Alex stepped forward. Knowing Anthony like she did she knew he wouldn't go inside till she did. She she stepped in grabbing Keke's hand as she went. "I'm so happy you're here!" But then she looked around the house at her clothes strung up the stairs every single piece and the kitchen and living room a mess. Her eyes widened and she dropped her hands to her side. "Oh dear god. This place is a mess." She looked bashfully and Alessandra and Anthony. She wasn't really expecting either of them to be here. Which also meant the to guest bedrooms weren't ready. The dogs came charging at the three and screeched to a stop as Alex put her hand on her hip and pointed toward the living room. They dropped their heads and tails and walked out.

She turned around and smirked at the two unexpected guest. "Sorry about the mess." She stepped over some clothes and dog toys and moved into the living room. She gathered up the clothes off the couch and threw them on the other side. "Anthony." She loved the way his name just flowed out of her mouth so perfectly. "You can hang down here and rest. I'm gunna show Alessandra her room upstairs. I'll be right back i promise." She kissed him on the cheek and grabbed a suitcase from the bottom the staircase. She moved up the stairs kicking clothes out of the way as she went. And Alessandra followed. They began chatting about the old times and they both giggled. It was like a little girl slumber party.

She lead her into the upstairs bedroom and set her suitcase on the bed. Flicking the light on as she went. She looked to Alessandra and smiled. "Look at you! You're about ready to pop." Alessandra laughed and nodded her head. "Alex...If you don't mind i think i just wanna change and head to bed." Alex smiled and nodded her head. "Of course. You relax and sleep good and in the morning... er well i might not be home till like late again. I'll be leaving her around 3 30 ish maybe 4 to work the horses then i was going to take a rode trip up to check out this colt." She figured she could change dates but it was late. Don't worry about it i'll be ok Alex smiled and walked out of the room leaving Alessandra to rest.

She stepped down the stair and looked into the living room to look for Anthony. She was exhausted from the whole day and she knew he was too. And on top of that he was in pain. She stepped over to the couch and sighed. "You ok?" She said as walked around. Well sure he wasn't he had just taken a cast off rode a race horse and was going through withdrawls. But it was just a natural instinct to ask that she guessed. She smiled and looked down at him. She was glad she found him he was such a great guy. And she was all his. She didn't want anyone else other then him. She sat down on the couch and slipped her shoes off. She was ready to just finally let the days events settle and start a new one.

[Charlie Parker]

Anthony shook his head at Alex's reaction to the house. It really wasn't that bad, he'd seen much worse. Most guys were complete slobs, and he was pretty sure he knew only one, besides himself, who wasn't, and that would be Charlie who had to have everything organized or it would drive him crazy. He wasn't obsessive about it, he just liked to know where everything was...kind of entertaining when Hayley moved in with him, considering she could care less what the house looked like. Anthony himself kept his place pretty clean. It wasn't something he intended on doing though. When he got home, he'd crash almost instantly, meaning he never changed before falling asleep, then in the morning, he would drag himself up to his room, shower and change, then head down stairs have breakfast, and leave. He didn't spend enough time in the house to make it a mess. Of course, about once a week he'd force himself to stay awake all night to get paper work done, and his office space was very much less than pristine, but that was about the only place in the house besides his bedroom, and maybe the bathroom, that looked lived in.

He kissed Alex back as she headed up stairs with Alessandra, and settled himself down o the couch. Now normally, when someone gets left downstairs in somebody else's house, it's kind of like awkward silence, I don't know what to do with myself. But for Anthony it wasn't quite that way. First of all, he felt just at home in Alex's living space as he felt in his own. And second of all, he was so exhausted and in so much pain that he couldn't really even think about it being all silent and what not. He ran his hand through his hair wearily as he awaited her return. Getting the weight entirely off his broken leg helped relieve the pain dramatically...though even with dramatic relief it was some pretty intense pain.

He could hear Alex's dogs in the other room, which made him think of his two. It was a good thing there was a doggy door, because he hadn't even thought to let them out while he was home. They could take care of themselves. Now, most people look down on people who just leave food out for their dogs at all times, but Akitas and Burmese Mountain Dogs were well known for their sparse eating habits, and both animals were the perfect weight for their age and size, and he'd had them both since they were puppies, so whatever he was doing must have been working.

Just as he finished that thought, Alex returned and asked him if he was okay. Well, not really, but he was still alive right? I'm surviving. He said, his typical answer when he was in pain...just to make it seem a bit better than it would sound if he said the pain was killing him. He knew Alex didn't like it when he didn't tell her these things, and knew she hated how he tried to hide it, but he had to. He may have been strong enough to live with the pain, but he wasn't strong enough to let people see that he was in pain. Him and his stupid pride...he knew it was ridiculous, but he couldn't get over it. Everybody has their flaws, and his was pride.

He looked over at her, wearily, but lovingly, and put his arm around her. What about you? He asked, kissing her on the cheek, you've had a long day too. He knew that she was probably just as tired as he was. They wore themselves down so much in a day, it probably wasn't healthy. I mean really, to be that tired every day...doctors would frown on it. Then again, they frowned on his refusal of medical help, they frowned on his riding on his injured leg so soon before it was fully healed, they frowned on his genetic drug dependency, and they frowned on his "reckless" lifestyle. It hadn't ever made a difference to him, and it wasn't going to now.

[Alex Lovasz]

It was amazing what they did. I mean up at 4 sometimes earlier. And up till whatever time it was surely after 11. She wasn't sure how she was still conscious. But here she was. She was exhausted...but this was normal now. She was used to being up this late. But never was it pleasurable. Usually she was sitting infront of the computer and on the phone. But in this case she was happy to say she stayed out and up late to spend time with the love of her life. She heard the dogs tags jingling and she smiled those dogs where so good to her. Most pets would hate being left at home all day while she workd but they handled it just fine. As if knowing she was thinking about them the two walked in and plopped themselves infront of the couch. She gigled and rubbed them with her feet. One= Kosak a lovable chocolate lab. And two = Radar a border collie with straight up ears. Both male. She loved those dogs and had them ever since they were pups.

As she had already suspected Anthony was settled onto the couch. And Now she was too. To her unfortune the pain killers were wearing off. And now every bone and muscle in her body seemed to hurt with every breath. He said he was surviving and her bratty smartalic side wanted to say... "Yeah barelly" But she contained herself. She knew it was hard for him him With his whole pride thing. But there was no hiding from her. She was now attuned to him. And when he was lying, or not himself she would be the first to know. But in this case she didn't expect him to totally go off on how misserable he was. It was that thing they called pride. And she understood it perfectly. And she wasn't going to ask him to change for her. Nope, She liked him just the way he was.

"Well i hope your surviving gets easier." She wasn't sure if that made sense but it did in her mind. She hoped he would know what she meant but she was to tired to really care if he did or not. Pathetic right? But if you got up at 3 30 you would be tired too. Plus dealing with worrying about your nuts boyfriend....boyfriend? She never really thought about it. But was he her boyfriend? What really was a boyfriend ...she didn't know. Anyways dealing with him just getting his cast off riding his blind race horse. Then riding her crazy horse getting thrown and then going out to dinner. It had been quite the day that was for sure. And she was happy with the ending. She loved that it didn't end in work.

He looked over at her and she looked into his eyes. She could just sit there lost in them forever. He put his arm around her and she leaned into him putting her feet on the other side of her. She rested her head one him. Me? Oh i'm just fine now." refering to the fact that he had his arm around her. She wouldn't ask to be anywhere else. She just melted right there. her dogs at her feet the man of her dreams holding her. It was the perfect picture. Now if had been winter she would have asked for it to be raining... oh wait it was. Thunder roared outside the windows as the rain pelted down. That only meant one thing. Sloppy track the next morning.. Depending on how much it rained and how hard the track was. But that was her mind trailing off. She sighed heavily and winced a little at her aching body.

She couldn't remember how many times her and the dogs had slept in the living room. Sometimes it was just to much to walk upstairs... She would come home and sit right there with the laptop on her lap and the dogs on the couch next to her. But today was different there was no laptop. And the dogs were replaced by her man. She closed her eyes. She wished every night could be this way. And they wouldn't have to say goodbye at the end of everyday. Tonight was the best so far. She wished it would never end. She could just fall asleep right there in his arms. And if it stayed quiet for to long she might just very well do that. She took in his scent. She loved the way he smelt even after he was all dirty and grungy from working with the horses he never really stunk.. well that was a lie but she did love the way he smelt now. So whatever body spray or whatever he was using was working. It was practically sudducing her.

[Tyler Haze]

Anthony smiled tiredly at her comment, Everything is easier with you around. He said honestly. Once again it probably sounded like one of those corny pick up lines...but it wasn't really. It was very true for him. With Alex he'd survived the hospital, he'd survived the withdrawals, he'd survived the pain...he was quite convinced he could survive anything as long as he had her, and so far he had been able to do so. It was amazing how much their love picked him and helped him on down the road that twisted and turned through life's trials. He just loved it. He just loved her, and that was the basics of it. What else did he need?

Anthony adjusted his hold on her a bit as she got herself more comfortable next to him. He never would have put himself as the cuddling sort of person, but now that they were...he was pretty sure he liked it. There was nothing better than having the woman he loved as close as possible to him. He loved having her body pressed up against his, he loved feeling her soft skin in contact with him. He loved feeling her heart beat against his chest, loved the feeling of her lungs rising and falling with each breath. He loved her blue eyes and her pale skin. He loved the warmth they seemed to generate when they touched. He just loved it...all of it.

Anthony was just so tired, he too could just fall asleep right there. And why not? Yeah, he wasn't going to live or sleep with her...in that sense...until they were married someday in the future....but what was wrong with one night together? It wasn't like they were going to have sex or anything, just sleep. He decided quite quickly that unless she objected, he was totally fine with it. He pulled his feet up onto the couch as well, shifting them into a position so that he was on his back, and she was kind of half way on top of him. It was a good thing this couch was somewhat wide, otherwise they'd probably both end up on the floor by morning.

He didn't think the two of them could get any more cozy together. In this position there was no way he was staying awake much longer. So he leaned over and kissed her, I love you. He whispered after doing so. Nope, there was no fighting nature's laws, and nature's laws demanded that he fall asleep right then. So after he had told her he loved her, his eyes drifted closed, and he was out. He didn't even try to fight it, he knew better than that, much better. Besides, having Alex right beside him...it was just perfect, he wouldn't have it any other way.

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He honestly hated internal alarm clocks...but loved them at the same time. It was about 3:00 am when his mind flickered back on and his eyes opened slowly. Up before the sun as usual, but something wasn't quite usual...he wasn't in his house. Things started coming into focus, and thats when it came back to him. He was lying on his side, his back against the back of the couch, with Alex facing away from him, but his arms still around her, her back pressed up against his chest. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he came to the realization of where he was. Maybe it wasn't such a terrible thing that Alex had "confiscated" his keys and refused to let him leave. He felt more rested this morning than he did most days...amazing how she rejuvenated him.

He wanted to stay there forever, but he knew that they would be leaving at least in an hour, and would have to get up. He reached over with his hand, and brushed his hand across her cheek gently. Morning beautiful, He said as he did so, still smiling. He always woke up incredibly fast every morning. Within about ten seconds, everything was functioning perfectly, he could think straight, there was no hoarseness to his voice, everything was completely in focus. He'd forced himself to make that a habit for when he woke up late so he could get up and out in decent time.

[Alex Lovasz]

He was so cute. Alex just loved how he made her feel so important. He always knew the sweetest thing to say. Sure from the outside it might have seemed corny. But no, in Alex's mind it was just perfect. She loved him so much. More then anyone in the world. No one loved anyone as much as she loved him."Is that so? Then i better sitck around." She spoked playfully. But inside she was exhausted. Her bones ached and sad part was she knew she had to get up in the morning and start the next day in just a couple hours. She would survive though it was her lifestyle. No sleep was just apart of it and she was rather accostumed to it now. Wake up early take care of the dogs grab an apple or whatever. Head to the barn ride Loco, watch Anthony ride King. Mess around at the barn for a while maybe grab some lunch. Come back work Loco again watch anthony again. Feed and chat with him for a while. THen head hom and spend the rest of the evening doing work. And then start all over. That was basically what her day exisisted of. Except now she needed to fight in time for Keke. She didn't know how but she knew she would some how or another.

Anthony adjusted slightly and she moved with him. Trying to make him as comfortable as possible. It was right then that she realised that they would both be staying on the couch together. And what was wrong with that. They weren't living together. And it wasn't as if they were going to "Sleep" together. Even if they were that kind of people. They were both way to tired to and would have surely fallen asleep. She sighed happily yet again. She loved being wrapped in his arms. She wished that life was this easy and she could just stay in his ams forever and foralways. But that wasn't the case they both had lives and work that needed their attention. But she was pretty sure he was the most important thing in her life. He trumped work racing her horse her friends everything. But that didn't mean she could have all those too.

She was happy she didn't let him go home. It wasn't just because she knew he couldn't drive home. That was the main reason. But secretly she didn't want him to go either. She wanted him to stay with her. She wanted to feel his strong arms wrapped around her slim body. She wanted to feel his strong chest pressed up against hers. His chest rise and fall and each breath blown on her neck. She was completely sudduced to the suttle actions of him. He probably didn't even know what he was doing but man he was doing it all right. She couldn't have been happier in that moment. She heard the dogs sleeping just below her and that was surprisingly hushed compared to what it normally was when they slept upstairs.

She wasn't surprised to find her usually cold body nice and warm being wrapped up in his. She was still in shorts a tank top and short sleeve jacket. But she didn't care... she usually found herself sleeping in her clothes. He was like her heater. Making everything just warm, including her insides. He kissed her and she kissed him back and then he told her he loved her. Words that every girl loved to her from the man in her life. "I love you too" she whispered back. Then between his soft sweet breath on her nape and the pouring rain on the windows she fell into a magnificant peaceful sleep. It was so easy to sleep with him holding her. She wouldn't have it any other way. If only every night was this perfect.
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Next thing she knew she was waking up.. The ever dreaded time to get up. It was amazing how well she had programed her body to get up at 3. Her eyes opened and peared up at the clock above the TV, that was never used. 3 on the dot. Now mind you Alex was used to waking up on her couch and looking at the clock. But she usually found the dogs sleeping with her. now this time was much different. yes very much so. She looked down to see hands wrapped around her. Then it all hit her. Those were Anthony's hands. They had fallen asleep together on the couch. It was odd waking up to a person instead of a dog. Don't get her wrong she loved waking up to him... It was way better then doggie breath. She wished it was the case every morning.

She looked out the window. It wasn't raining and the sun... as usual was still not up yet. She took a deep breath. She felt so rejuvinated. Which usually wasn't the case but that especially for the couch was by far the best sleep she had ever had. Morning Beautiful His words reached her ears. Mmmm it was nice waking up to that voice. "mmmm" She cooed. to him softly. "Morning Handsome" She returned the gesture. You could tell they were both morning people. I mean fro crying out loud it was 3 am on a saturday morning what other signs did you need. It was then that she realised how pressed against him sh really was. It was nice... very nice. But she hoped she wasn't causing him any pain since he had to go out and ride to day already she didn't need him sore from her.

She rolled over careful not to hit him or make things awkward so to speak. She giggled her little joyious girl laugh as she wraed her arms around him and gracefully pressed her lips to his. That kiss seemed to last forever.. but it also seemed to end all to soon. She slide her legs over the couch and sat up she stretched her arms and placed her hand on the couch. She looked over and ran her other hand through her hair. "How'd you sleep?" She expected the usualy good. Manly because she was still nervous about causing him pain no way she wanted to cause him more then he was already in. But if he asked her the same question no matter what his answer was she was going to be honest. It was the best sleep he had had in weeks and she felt so refreshed now. Ready for the long busy day ahead of her. Ah the life of two love birds.

[Anthony Lovasz]

Anthony couldn't help but smile there with Alex. This was honestly the first time he had ever woken up with the girl he loved right next to him like that, and before now, he had no idea what he was missing out on. He just wanted to keep his arms around her, hold her close, let the day waste away without him. Here with her, it was like everything was perfect. He had completely forgotten about the pain he was in, and currently wasn't in any...though he knew that as soon as he stood up he'd at least be in some pain. But the way he was feeling right now...he knew that today was going to be perfect. He was going to go out there and show that trainer just exactly what King could do on the track, despite his poor eye sight, and they were going to get a trainer signed. Then all he would need would be an owner...but he could get any stupid rich guy to sign as owner. After all, what better to have to your name than a thoroughbred race horse?

Anthony absolutely loved the sound of Alex's voice there beside him. She rolled over so she was facing him, and he was absolutely certain he knew what was coming next. Her soft lips pressed against his in a passionate kiss, which he returned very willingly. He wrapped his arms around her again, putting his hands on her back. In that moment, time stopped and stood still. He didn't have to get up to ride, he didn't have to go out and work, he didn't have to worry about anything. He could just stay there forever with the most beautiful girl in the world who he loved, and was pretty darn sure she loved him in return. It was perfection at its best.

But then when they pulled apart, reality returned. She sat up, and he followed suit, though stayed right next to her so that their bodies were still as close as possible. He knew that they needed to get going or he'd end up late for his meeting with that trainer. It wasn't until 5:00 which gave him two hours, but he still had to go home and get changed and all that good stuff, then he had to get King all ready to go, which involved walking him for half an hour, then he had to get up to the track, get him warmed up, and then wait for the trainer's arrival. Plus, he had to ride Doubt after that, and from what he'd heard, all progress he'd made on that horse had been completely ruined when he stopped riding, so that was going to be a hassle.

Then she asked him how he slept...did she really need to ask? He didn't think he'd ever slept any better in his life. Yeah sure he'd slept longer than that when he was in the hospital and had no choice...but that was by far the best rest he'd ever had in his life. Perfectly, He said with a smile, but I wouldn't have expected any different with you beside me. As he said this, he stood up and offered her his hand. And there came the pain, but it wasn't anywhere near as bad as last night. No this was the pain that was normal in a only partially healed leg. He didn't even have to pretend to not limp, because it wasn't bad enough to cause a limp.

When she took his hand, he pulled her to her feet and up close to him. He put his hands on either side of her jaw line, and leaned down to kiss her gently. Now he was even more anxious for the day when he could wake up with her right beside him every morning. When he didn't have to say good bye at night. Tonight was just a little glimpse of that, and what little he'd seen, he'd liked very much. If it was possible, he would spend every moment of every day with her right beside him. He was more addicted to her than he was addicted to drugs, and with her, it was his choice to be addicted. It was his hope that someday soon the two of them could ride together on the track, but he was fairly sure that it would be a while still. Although Doubt would get along with anyone and everyone in the stable, he was a demon on the track and had been disqualified a time or two for savaging the other horses. King...well, King hadn't run on the track with another horse in a long time, and he wasn't sure how his poor eye sight wold do with that just yet. Loco...well, he was Loco, and Anthony honestly had no idea how he would do with another horse on the track.

So for now, they would just keep riding separately, and who knew what could happen? Maybe it would be a few months, maybe a few years, but he knew that with time they would be able to ride together. The longer the waiting, the sweeter the reward. He was a very impatient person, and was terrible at waiting, but for Alex, he would do it. For Alex he would wait his whole life if he had to. He loved her, and that love was unconditional.

[Alex Lovasz]

He kissed her back. Hmmmm...She loved it. Every kiss, Every Hug, Every touch, Every word, Every moment, Every time he held her, Every time he looked at her, And Every moment to come. She loved them all and was so thankfull for them. Without him should couldn't survive. She needed his arms wrapped around her. Sure she was the girl that wanted to prove to the world that she could stand on her own two feet with out anyones help. But that was only because she was scared. She was scared of being attached to someone and living off them and then them turn around and leave her nothing. She was scared that would happen. And so she promised herself she would never be vunerable. But now she knew... Anthony was in love with her and she knew he would never hurt her. But that thought of being left was at the back of her mind. It had happened to so many people around her. It could happen to her. But when he held her close and kissed her she felt safe. Safe from any heart break.

In that moment she was free. Free of work. Of pain. Of stress. Of worry. Of any harm that could be there lurking. Of life. And Though that perfect kiss seemed to last forever... It was over all to quickly. she sat up putting her hands on her knees. Time to start all over...Only to be disapointed at the end of the day. After this night none would compare till she knew she could wake up in his arms every morning. But today was going to be good. She would go work Loco get him settled. Change and go up to the track to watch Anthony impress the prospective trainer. Then back again as he worked his new horse maybe. Then She had to rush home say hey to Keke jump in the truck and trailer and drive for a few hours chat and possibly pick up a colt. Then drive home for a few hours to get the colt settled and to work loco again. Feed him then watch anthony. And then she got to go home talk to Keke and work. She could already tell it was going to be a long day.

He sat next next to still oh so close. She wouldn't have it any other way. Side by side they would conquer the day. Perfectly The word reached her ear causing a grin to spread over her face. She let out a deep breath. She was glad. And she could tell by the way he said it he was being totally honest. she giggled as he finished. "Oh gosh." She rolled her eyes playfully. She knew he was serious. It was just to her he couldn't get any cuter. She blushed slightly. But that wasn't a surprise he always had a way of making her blush with his words. She found her hands shaking. She wasn't sure from what but they were. She looked down at them quizzically. She shook it off and ignored it but they continued to shake.

He stood up and reached down to help her up. She smiled and placed her hand in his. "Why thank..." But she was cut off as he pulled her closer and placed his hands on her jaw line. He leaned down and kissed her gently. She giggled and wrapped her arms around his neck. She never wanted to be apart from him. "Mmmm... What was that for?" Like he really needed a reason to kiss her. Heck he could kiss her all day long and she wouldn't mind one bit. But curiousity always seemed to get the best of her. She'd been that way all her life... and it had gotten her into trouble several times before. But in this case it was the innoscence of love that got her curious. She leaned into him not to much as she was unsure of how much pain was in him at the moment but still enough. Heck she was in pain and she hadn't gone through nearly the things he had

Her dream now was to be with him forever. And during that being able to ride with him on the track. But as far as she was concerned that was far off. King maybe getting closer but Loco was still far from. Well in her mind she almost thought it would be better to keep his focus if there was another horse out there. But he wasn't sure about risking Anthony's life... or Kings... No not again.She wouldn't let that happen again. Now maybe with a different horse then King... or who knew maybe things would be fine but she needed to get Loco through on good workout without him acting out. Who knew maybe that day was today. With all the other good stuff happening it was very likely that he would behave well. haha right that would be the day.

[Anthony Lovasz]

Anthony was so completely entranced by Alex that he could have stood there kissing her for hours without even realizing how much time had passed. He smiled when she asked what that kiss was for. What do you think it was for? He asked, letting his arms fall back down to his sides. He would have loved to just stay there, but he had too many horses and humans relying on him over at the stables to do that. He sighed, a bit loathsomely knowing he had to say goodbye. Yeah, it would only be for a little while until they got out to the stable again, but every moment with her went to fast, and every moment apart was far too long.

I should go... he said at long last, knowing it was the inevitable and he might as well not put it off any longer. Before Alex could protest or he second guessed himself, he started towards the door, stopping after a few steps and turning to face her again. That slightly boyish smile appearing on his face. Alex still had his keys, and he couldn't go anywhere without them. Sure he could walk...might take him a few very painful hours...but he couldn't get into the house without his keys...so she'd have to give them to him. I believe you have something of mine. he said with a smirk. He was fairly sure she'd give them to him since he really did have to go.

When his keys had been returned to him, he kissed Alex on the cheek one last time before heading out. It only took about half an hour to get back to his house, and he was greeted by two very exuberant dogs who couldn't be more happy to see him. He felt kind of bad for leaving them in all day yesterday and all night, so he let them prance along at his heels everywhere he went. He did, however, lock them out of the bathroom when he took his shower...because if he hadn't they would have followed him right in. As soon as he was dressed again though and stepped out of the bathroom, there they were, waiting for him.

Then it was downstairs for a quick breakfast, part of which he shared with the two dogs. As he was heading out, the puppy wandered over to the bed for a nap, but the older dog kept following him. He stopped at the door, and looked down at the dog who wagged his bushy tail innocently. He shook his head, and opened the door...the dog didn't move. Come on man, we haven't got all day. He said with a laugh. The dog leapt out ahead of him, bounding around the truck several times before Anthony opened the door and let him in. There was nothing this dog liked more than a ride in the car. The puppy was still to young to take places without a leash, so she stayed home most of the time.

From his house to Pinewood was a short drive, and as soon as he walked in, he was greeted by, not one, but two friendly whinnies. He half expected an angry one from Loco, but apparently he hadn't heard him or something. Hey there old boys. he said, greeting both horses. ready for a long day? Both of the thoroughbreds thrust their heads towards him, begging for attention. He smiled, and gave both horses what they wanted. He knew Alex would be getting here any minute now, and she'd probably be pretty excited about everything that was going on in her life. Her best friend, riding loco, getting a new horse...all of it. He was pretty excited for her himself.

He grabbed King's head and brought him over to the cross ties to start getting him ready for the day. he was already pretty sleek, but there was nothing wrong with getting him groomed to perfection. After all, he had to be dressed to impress. Of course, Anthony's regular exercise riding clothes weren't all that impressive. I mean really, jeans, a t-shirt, and a light coat...not all that fancy, but that was what most guys wore anyway. He occasionally got out the whole jockey garb thing, but on most occasions it was just the regular. Besides, it was the horse that mattered, not the rider...to the trainer anyway. Of course, being a good rider always made the horse look better, especially when the horse was blind.

[Alex Lovasz]

'What do you think it was for' His voice sinking into her. She loved the way he could say anything even something stupid or disgusting and she would still melt being able to hear him. He just had one of those voices that lurred you in.... Or was it the fact that she was totally head over heals for him. What did that saying really mean "Head over heals" It really didn't make sense. Did it mean that just being around her act...silly like she was walking on her hands. Did it mean that his pressence turned her upside down. Did it mean she was crazy about him. Or that she could barelly think straight when she was with him.... Well whatever it meant she knew one thing was right. It was another way of saying she was totally in L.O.V.E. with him. She giggled at what he said and kissed him one last time. He dropped his hands as did she. She looked down to see her to crazy dogs staring at them. Another chuckle escaped her mouth. She patted them on the head and moved to the edge of the couch.

Finally the words came that she dreaded most. 'I should go' She sighed and looked down at rug. She nodded and looked up him. She turned her head watching him walk to the door. Sure she knew she would see him at the barn but saying goodbye even for an hour or so was hard. She hated when he left her or vice versa. And it only made her want to be with him forever. But for now this was how it was going to be. And she knew very well where he stood on living together. Besides she wasn't sure how well she could do that. Sure she would be happy okay extremely happy. But she had work and with him there she would never want to do it she would want to spend every moment with him. And she couldn't make a living doing that. Though if she could she'd be rich.

But before he got very far he stopped and turned back giving her that boyish grin of his that she loved. She smiled back playfully. 'I believe you have something of mine.'[/s] She gave on of those "dang it i've been caught looks" And she stepped up to him and jingled the keys in his face. "I do believe these are what you are refering to." He pecked her on the cheek and turned to walk out the door. "See you at the barn." And with that the day began. She turned around to see those two faces grinning up at her. "Well i suppose we best get read right boys?" She walked past them into the kitchen serving them breakfast. They didn't even look at it they just followed her around. She headed up the stairs quietly. And stepped into the master bedroom then the bathroom. They both followed her right in. And if she would have let them they would have walked right into the shower with her. But they were too big now for her to do that they all couldn't fit. So they waited outside the shower door. She grabbed her breaches a tank top and light jacket and slipped her knee high riding boots. Sure she could have worn jeans but she decided that this look was better for riding. Besides if she didn't say so herself it was a cute look for her.

She left the dogs in that day... To many things going on though they would be going with her to check out the colt. They were her inspecters. If they didn't like the horse the horse didn't come... Course neither really likes Loco but he was the exception. She turned and locked the door apple in hand. She wasn't much of a breakfast person so this would do. She pulled into the stable drive in her porsche to save gas in the truck, which had to pull the trailer for a while. she got out. No one was there and she flicked the lights on as it was dark. She wasn't expecting to see anyone there it was far to early. Unless this was a thoroughbred farm. Which it was coming close between her and Anthony. Loco eagerly shoved his head through the door and nickered. She stopped and smiled at him. She walked over to him and clipped a lead to him. She was going to try and get to the track and back before Anthony got there. It shouldn't be to hard but they would have to get ready with the quickness. She brought him out went over him with a brush then slapped the light excersize saddle. Bridle. Then there were off. She lead him up the trail. It was foggy out and you really couldn't see three feet infront of you. It was like one of those scenes in a horror movie and you walked then saw a shadow to inches infront of you... to see the monster or whatever.

They made it to the track and she patted him on the neck buckled her helmet and hopped on. They jogged around the outside for nearly a lap. Then cantered for a half lap. Then turned him to the insde and stopped him. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. There was no lights out here so she was putting her complete control in Loco. Which with the horse's past was a big step. it was funny even if Anthony would have been there he wouldn't have been able to see. The track was muddy and gross but she didn't have to worry about goggled because they were the only ones out there. The only ones for a couple of miles...she hoped anyways. As she released her breath she cued him and he took off. He was doing great he didn't faulter especially considering this ws his first time running on a muddy track.

She was sad that she couldn't clock him but in due time in due time. He was going pretty fast and moving up tight next to the rail. She couldn't see a darn thing out here and it was very intimidating considering her horse was a phscho. Finally it came time to slow him up. She was amazed at how well he did. He felt great. She loved riding it made her feel....Like she could fly and just get away from everything. She was almost happy that she could get out here before Anthony arrived it gave her time to think and have some alone time... That which she never got. But it wasn't all that important anyway. She jogged him on the outside till she found the gate then hopped off. The track wasn't as muddy as she was expecting which was good considering Anthony and King had to make a good impression and mud could just through off there game.

They walked through the gate and the peaceful sounds of the wilderness uncompassed them. She smiled and patted Loco's neck. He bobbed his head and nudged her playfully and she giggled. She didn't know what it was but today he was being oddly...good. She hadn't had a problem at all with him this morning. He was great at the barn and the track and the now the walks inbetween. Someone switched her horse where was the real Loco. She stopped him in the middle of the trail and looked at him. She stood directly infront of him a nd looked into his eyes. That cold glare that was usually there was turned soft and playful. She smiled and laughed slightly. Turning back around she looked down the hill at Pinewood Stables.... Well she could barelly see it because of the front light. But the fog was beginning to lighten up.

She looked to the drive to see Anthony's truck pull in. She smiled and clucked signaling for Loco to walk on. The made it to the barn and she looked in the door to see Anthony grab King. "Hey stranger." She said and laughed a little. She had mud plastered all over her from running and walking. It wasn't sloppy mud either it was that just barely consisdered mud stuff that hurt when it hit you. Especially when you were already in pain from the day before. But it was all good even if she had mud on her face. She smiled and Lead Loco to his stall. He would be demanding breakfast if she waited any longer. WHile in the stall she quickly slipped off the tack and slid it and her helmet into the take box. In doing so she slipped out a CD player and plugged it in. The first song to play was one of her favorites. Jason Mraz "I'm Yours."

It began to play and she danced...well more like just swayed over to Anthony after stroking Loco's forehead. She walked straight for Anthony but right before she reached him she turned to go into the feed room. She loved teasing him. It made her feel lilke a care free kid again... Not the over worked race horse owner that hardly ever had time to mess around.
After sliding the hay and grain into the feeder she turned around leaning on the stall door. She stayed there slient as the song played just watching Anthony. The song almost related to them in a way. She was definatly his. Now and as far as she was concerned.. Forever.

[Charlie Parker]

About the time Anthony had finished with King, he heard Alex's sweet voice and the sound of hooves on the hard ground. So that would be why he hadn't heard Loco's angry whinny when he got here, Alex had taken him out before he'd arrived. That explained it perfectly. It may well have been better that way for her, considering she still had to drive out to that stable to look at the colt, and that would be a pretty long drive, so it was best she get going as soon as possible. As for him, he had to ride King, and hopefully impress the trainer, then he had to attempt to ride Doubt...which he was guessing wouldn't go too well. From what the trainer had told him, Doubt was a demon on the track again. Then, in the afternoon, he would be working on training Doubt, knowing that many many long hours would be required to set the horse right again.

King eyed Loco rather warily, and Anthony didn't blame him. He felt the same way about the big black devil. King was about the same size as he was, but he didn't look quite so menacing with his half white face and light chestnut coat. Plus, whatever Alex had done to King during the week he'd been gone had turned him into a giant teddy bear...that just happened to be in the form of a racehorse. Besides that, King still didn't have full sight back, he knew, and so it made him a bit more standoffish to other horses than he normally might have been for fear they might attack him when he couldn't see what they were doing.

He laughed as she turned on a CD player and moved towards him, but vanished into the feed room just before reaching him. You see the kind of torture she puts me through? He asked King, jokingly of course. In the time it took Alex to get the feed to Loco, he had King all tacked up and ready to go. He unclipped the cross ties and let King just follow along behind him. He walked over towards Alex, noting that King stopped a few stalls from Loco. He was a smart horse, and knew better than to get too close. Anthony knew better than to get too close too, but Alex was right there...and he couldn't resist her.

He walked over to her, reached out and took her hand in his, all while keeping one eye on Loco. He pulled her two him, then sort of turned so she was facing Loco's stall. He gently pushed her back so her back was against the wall opposite of her crazy horse, and put his arms on either side of her. Without even so much as a word, he leaned in and kissed her, putting his hands around her waist as he did so. After a moment or two, he pulled back slowly from her, a crooked grin emerging on his face. Just as he had pulled back though, he heard the sound of approaching feet, and looked away, his expression instantly becoming more serious.

Why the sudden change? Oh he knew that step anywhere...it was purposeful and long, slightly gimped by a limp, yet proud none the same. That could belong to only one man, Mr. Jackson Fently, well renowned thoroughbred race horse trainer. He was about to turn around and grab King so it wouldn't look like he was neglecting the horse, but he felt hot breath being exhaled on his neck, and realized that King had worked up the nerve to come closer to to Loco...most likely just for the fact that his two favorite people in the whole world were ignoring him and paying too much attention to each other.

Anthony's suspicion about the approaching person was prove to be true when the man, accompanied by a younger fellow...most likely his assistant who would double as a handler as well when needed. Anthony let his hand drop down to Alex's, and his fingers laced in between hers as the trainer drew near. Well Lovasz, he said with a smile, as he extended his hand towards Anthony, You're certainly not 16 anymore, but you haven't gotten any taller. Anthony just laughed as he took the guy's hand, Mr. Fently had been the one who "discovered" Anthony down in Mexico, and was more like a father to him than his own dad had been.

Good thing I haven't, Anthony replied, neither of us would be here now if I had. He didn't really realize that he was still holding Alex's hand...it just sort of came naturally, and it felt right being there. He also didn't really realize that he didn't know Alex. It seemed like he'd been with her forever, though in reality it had only been three or four weeks. It seemed like he and Alex were just...just always an item. It seemed like they were a match made in heaven that had been put together from the very start.

Mr. Fently, however, remembered that he didn't know Alex. And who might your lovely lady friend be?[/s] He asked, in a completely non hitting on her sort of way. He was like 80 years old, and totally not like that at all. He'd been happily married for 55 years before his wife died, and he had decidedly chosen to never remarry. Besides, Alex was much too young, and she was Anthony's, he deserved a nice girl. Sorry, Anthony said, realizing his mistake...it was one he tended to make a lot, This is Alex, my uh..... Dang it what was she? Girlfriend was too petty a word to be used to describe what she was to him. Then suddenly, after hardly a moment, what she was popped into his head. ...Better half.

[Alex Lovasz]

When she passed Anthony she heard him talking to King she laughed and it echoed through the barn. She returned and feed Loco. But just a moment after Anthony was walking up to her. He had one of those playful mischievious grins on. She smiled and giggled a little curious as to what he was about to do to her. She grabbed her hand and twisted her into facing loco's stall. She took notice of King's hesitation. She didn't blame him. If she were another horse and was near Loco she'd step back. Although they were having an oddly good day. But with Anthony's pressence Loco pinned his ears and stepped up to the door. But Before she could see anymore. Anthony pressed her up against the wall with a hand on each side of her. He leaned into her and kissed her without a word. She squeeled a little and kissed him back of course. But no fast had the started to kiss they stopped. Foot steps echoed through the barn and she and Anthony pulled away both their playful in love faces faded quickly into strictly business. Alex blushed a little embarrassed to be found pretty much making out in the barn not really paying any attention to the horses.

But then it got worse. Not only had they simply been seen they were spotted by the man who was here to look at Anthony and King. Now she was even more embarrassed but did her best to hide it. And Anthony turned away and laced his fingers in hers. She accepted him without even thinking and held his hand as the man shook his other one and joked with him. She smiled and laughed a little but new that it had been a while since they had seen on another. She just noticed Kings heavy breathing on her and she unvoluntarily reached her hand up and stroked his half white face. He was such a sweet horse way different then before the accident. She craddeled his face with her one arm. But then she jumped and flinched as Loco snorted. She tried to ignore him but she couldn't help but glance at him from the corner of her eye. All this going through her mind and she was finally brought back to the conversation when the older man asked who she was. She looked up as Anthony appologized and said her name. But he paused a second before stating who she was to him "my... Better half" He stated. She smiled and looked up at him. That was just Anthony right there. He didn't say any over lovable saying like she's my angel. And he didn't say girlfriend. But this definatley fit his personality.

She smiled leaned onto Anthony slightly. Not in an all over him type way but just letting him know she liked that description. "And you must be Mr. Fently." Anthony had mentioned him before and she was glad for once her me
mory for names hadn't failed her. She stretched out her hand to shake his. As far as she knew they were old friends but this was a business meeting was it not. Then she suddenly realised she was still splattered in mud from her ride earlier. Wow way to make a first impression. But she wasn't going to make a big deal out of it. Couldn't change it now. She patted King's neck she could tell her knew something was going on. Plus she wanted to reasure him that Mr. Fently wasn't going to hurt him. She wasn't sure who was more excited Anthony, King, Or herself. She was anxious to get out there but she held herself back from say "shall we." It was after all Anthony and Kings over looking not hers.

She jumped as Loco stamped his foot banging the door in the process. She looked at Anthony from the corner of her eyes. She didn't want to leave him right now. So Loco would just have to wait. And it just reminded her of the first day she met Anthony... She wasn't going to make that mistake twice. She looked up at the clock. Plus she didn't have time to tend to Loco watch the ride and get home change and swtich trucks. Loco would be fine. She was going to support Anthony. She had a long car ride hopefully this colt would be all that she was hoping for because she knew Anthony would be here all afternoon tending to his new horse. And even though she'd like to be here to help him this colt could be just the prospect she needed.

She was anxious to see him.. From the video and the pictures he looks like he has what it takes. Course that really couldn't be told till he was about 2 or 3. She liked starting at 3.. it gave the foal more time to develop. Plus they got more time to finish there rebelious stages. She remembered what it was like at that time of year on the farm. She loved foaling season her and her brothers would always pick their choice of foals and they were aloud to train him up. And if they were old enough they could take them all the way to the track. She loved that. She loved excersize riding and training and just the whole bit. She loved just owning which reminded her she never got to tell Anthony what she wanted to tell him last night... So she would just have to wait till later.. probably when she got back.. if they saw one another. Which they probably would but it depended on when she left here and when she left there. Plus traffic. She hoped he would be around if she brought the colt home.

[Charlie Parker]

Anthony let go of Alex's hand as she leaned into him, and put his arm around her shoulders. He had no problem with people seeing the two of them together. He loved her, it was no secret, so why should he be afraid to show it? Besides, Mr. Fently was like his dad pretty much, and he could tell that he approved of Alex. He was a good man, and a very good judge of people. It was like after so many years of studying the subtleties in horses, he could see them better in humans as well. Anthony wouldn't have any other man sign on as trainer. If Mr. Fently said no, then it meant King wasn't ready to become a real racehorse yet. If he said yes, then Anthony knew he and King would be going places. Of course, Anthony was quite confidant that he would say yes, he wouldn't have asked him to come look at the horse otherwise.

Mr Fently smiled as Alex took his hand, Wonderful to meet you.[/s] He said brightly. It was amazing how...alive...they all were at this hour. Most people were still in bed right now, but here the four of them were, all very much awake. No one really noticed the mud all over Alex, she was a jockey of sorts, and on a day like this it was perfectly normal. Besides...Anthony was going to look pretty much just like that when he got off the track, so it was really no big deal. Dirt and sweat were two essential parts of horse racing, and without them...the sport just wouldn't be the same.

After a few minutes of conversation, they all headed up to the track. As they walked, Anthony slipped his hand back into hers, while the other was firmly on the reins. This life was just perfect for him, he couldn't ask for it to be any better. He and Alex had never had any problems, and they were just so...in love right now that he didn't see them ever having relationship issues. King was improving with every stride he took, and now he had a possible trainer who had never been anything but supportive of everything he did. What better could he ask for? Really, he couldn't ask for anything else.

As they got closer to the track, King started getting more excited, prancing at Anthony's side, tossing his head, and even nickering a time or two. Even though he couldn't see all that well he certainly looked perfect there. He was big and well built, he was in top condition, and very ready to show off his true colors. Of course, he had only been out on the track once since he got out of the hospital, and it had gone perfectly except when he lost his nerve coming to the spot where they'd gone down...but even that had lasted only a moment or two before he talked some sense into his own head. From there it had been a smooth ride.

Anthony took a deep breath and exhaled before getting up onto King's back. Sure this was just like every other ride, but it was the first time he had ever ridden King in front of anyone besides Alex...it was the first time he had ridden any horse in front of anyone besides Alex in over a year. He reached down to adjust his left stirrup slightly, wincing a bit at the pain in his leg as he did so. He really didn't want Alex to worry about him any more than he knew she always did, and so tried not to show it...not particularly hiding it...but not advertising it either. He then turned his attention to the trainer to see what he had to say.

The instructions were to start at the 3/8 pole and keep him reined in for half the track then start letting him out. Once they get back to the 3/8 he was to let him have his head for five to six furlongs, then pull him up. It was a decent workout, nothing to strenuous...but Anthony knew that he just wanted to see what King could do when he wasn't being pushed, he wanted to see what kind of gears he would get to without being asked for more. Anthony nodded, then glanced back over at Alex before urging King out onto the track as he forced any and all thoughts of everyone to leave his head. All that he could have running in his mind was the instructions given, and the horse under him...nothing else.

There was something about the turf of the track that seemed to shoot electricity through the horse and excite him beyond belief. As soon as the soft dirt touched his hooves,, Anthony felt the reins draw tight, and he knew King would be fighting him the whole way. He jogged him out to the 3/8 pole, then circled him a time or two, before letting him have enough rein for the easy gallop for the first half the track. Thoughts of the accident didn't even enter his head once as they moved along the track. He'd decided early on that he was going to block that memory whenever he was up on a horse, and it was working so far.

After half the track had been eaten up by the horse's long strides, he started to slowly let him out. Just like in a race, King begged and fought for more, but Anthony kept him moving at a pace where he would be overtaking just one horse at a time...if there had been other horses on the track. Then, the 3/8 flashed by, and Anthony pretty much let go of the reins in the sense that he was still holding them but not holding the horse back. King was all to eager to eat up everything he could, and lurched forwards. He didn't seem to shift gears quite right though, it took him about a furlong to really get going, which was very unlike him. There was no bobble in his step though, and he seemed to be running just fine.

Finally, the work was over, and Anthony painstakingly slowed King down to a walk and brought him back around to the people awaiting him at the rail. Not his best time in the world, Anthony knew...he just hoped that the trainer could see the potential in him to do better, because both Anthony and Alex knew he could. They'd seen it, and Anthony could feel it. Every time those muscles bunched underneath him, he knew what this horse could do. He jumped down off King's back when they had exited the track, and positioned himself beside Alex to await Mr. Fently's verdict. He knew it wouldn't be an immediate yes or no, he would consider it for a few days, but he just wanted to hear what he had to say, and for some reason having Alex standing next to him...he was confident that if it was bad, he could handle it.

[Alex Lovasz]

Anthony put his arm around her and she pretty much melted. She felt so... perfect right there. Course it would have been even better if Loco was with them... well and if he was gentle. But we all know that story all too well. She was still happy though. She smiled at Mr. Fently. He seemed nice and from what Anthony had told her he was like a father figure to him. Alex wasn't sure exactly what he meant by that. But she was sure he didn't mean like her father. Which reminded her. He had told her basically everything about his life. And now she knew him which made her happy... didn't change a thing though she still loved him more then anything. But she hadn't told him anything about her past. Nothing of her childhood anyways... she didn't like to talk about it much.. so as long as he never asked she probably wouldn't tell him.

She nodded "Likewise" She said in response to Mr. fently. A few more words were exchanged and then they headed to the track. Anthony put his hand back in hers and they walked back up to the track. The fog layer had lightened up and was pratically none exsistant which was good because if it was still there they wouldn't be able to see the horse and rider on the track. She looked over at King, her big teddy bear, he seemed anxious.. and excited. She grinned at thim, during Anthony's time in the hospital She and King got really close. She loved that horse he was apart of her. And had the cutest face ever. She could just squeeze him to death.. but she wouldn't of course. It was amazing how close a bond she had with both Anthony and King especially after only knowing them a couple weeks. They both held a place in her heart that was for sure.

She looked at Anthony he had such a serious face on... Not a bad serious but you could tell he was focused on the task at hand. They looked so strong and set to go. She took a deep breath as the track came into veiw.. even though she just saw it it never failed to take her breath away. She squeezed Anthony's hand slightly and then let it go. He jumped onto King and she flashed him a huge grin and mouth the words "i love you." And with that he was on the track. He had recieved his instructions. They both were ready to go you could tell. King seemed electrified. Like if you were to plug her cd player into him it would play. That was good but Anthony needed to be ready to take on his strong head. Because he was rearing to go.

She looked up at him and noticed him flinch. A frown clouded over her face. She knew he could do this and both him and King were a great team, But she wasn't sure it was wise to be doing this right after getting the cast off.. especially after what happened last night. She looked up at him full with concern but she noticed Mr. fently look at her and she quickly smiled covering up and hint of worry. She would let Anthony tell him on his own... if he was going to. He looked away and her worry came back. She had officially decided that from now on she was going to worry enough for both of them so he didn't have to. He jogged off and she took a spot on the rail leaning on it. Her nuckles were white from gripping the rail. Sh had to tell herself to breath. It was funny if it was her out there she would be completely calm and relaxed. But being here on the ground having no control of what went down out there... needless to say it scared the crap out of her.

Her face completely serious and focused. Here eyes were locked on the two bodies moving around the track. She watched every move carefully. And when he lt King out she saw that tiny hesitation. Her she caught her breath and then let it go when King continued on. She bit her bottom lip. God, this is so nerve wrecking Were the thoughts going through her head. She sighed slightly know that Anthony wouldn't be happy with that glitch. It concerned her but he seemed to moving just fine. And Despite her want for him not to. She was positive that Mr. Fently would notice. He was a well known trainer and of course he would notice even something as small as that. It was to be expected. She just hoped he would see all that Anthony and her saw. All the potential and ability. King was a great horse. Amazing mover and he was half blind. He had that thing that every great horse had. That special something.

They came off the track and she automatically reached out to hold King steady while Anthony dismounted. Not that he needed it but she wanted to check King. She ran her hands subconsciously down all four of his legs. No heat. It was funny even if nothing would have happened she still would ahve checked them.. it was instinctual for her to do that. She did it with Loco everytime. She notice Anthony take a spot standing next to her and she smiled. She was there to support him.. and this was the time he needed it the most.. the verdict. Sure in post cases it took a couple of days to decide. But she knew King and she knew horses in general. And you could tell almost immidiately after watching them run if that had what it took or not. In her opinion he had it. She may have only been in her twenties but she had spent nearly her whole life on the farm. She knew what the trainers looked for. Or at least what their old trainer looked for. She had that gift of telling... telling if a horse could be brought up to racing form. It was hard to describe. But she saw it in Loco and in King.

She looked over at Mr. Fently and tried to read his face but she discovered that was useless. Her eyes dropped to his wrist which had a watch on it. She read the upside down numbers. She couldn't help it she had a lot to get done today. Course she would rather be late then leave Anthony at such an important time. She took a deep breath she felt like a wreck. She was nervous and excited... But then she looked over at Anthony and he seemed so calm and collected. That was her the majority of the time... What was wrong with her? She figured she took her own advice to heart... Worry enough for the both of you so he doesn't have to. Yup thats exactly what she was doing. She laughed in her head. But it seemed to be working Anthony didn't seem the least bit nervous or worried. That was good... Either way she ould be there right beside him good news or bad.