The night was still young when Cole made his way out to the stables.

While everyone else in the house was still asleep, he couldn’t even lie down without tossing and turning. It was unnatural for him. So he decided to take his mind off it in the only way he knew how to.

The doors to the stable opened with a taunting creak, as if reminding Cole of how behind he was in the repair. He’d told himself he’d get to it… three weeks ago.

Running a hand through his sandy blonde hair, he approached one horse in particular. A big gray horse who had definitely seen better days. Cole reached a hand out and pet her mane, “Hey, Athena, girl.” He cooed to her in a quiet voice.