Chapter 16

Rachel woke to a soft knock on her door. For a moment, she lay still, caught between the heaviness of sleep and the faint noises drifting through the house.

“Rachel?” Matt’s voice. “Breakfast’s on the table.”

She stirred reluctantly. The last thing she wanted was a morning filled with cheerfulness, but the smell of toast and coffee curled under the door, tugging her upright.

In the kitchen, Caroline sat at the end of the long wooden table, chair wheels tucked neatly beneath. Geordie was already outside, his boots crunching on the gravel. Matt slid a plate in front of Rachel with an ease that made her wonder how many mornings he’d done the same here.

“Big day,” Caroline said lightly, as though it were an ordinary school timetable. “Volunteers arrive at nine-thirty. First class at ten. We do it all again after lunch.” She looked at Rachel kindly. “No pressure on you. Just watch. See what you think.”

Rachel nodded. She had promised herself nothing today — no involvement, no participation — only observation. That was safe.

By the time they reached the stables, the yard was alive, and volunteers were streaming in. Four horses were tacked and ready, two more waiting their turn. Then came the minibus, children’s voices bubbling with anticipation. Some leaned forward as if they couldn’t wait another second, others sat quietly with wide eyes. It was a mix — beginners who had only just learned to ride, and older hands who could trot confidently.

Rachel stayed close to Matt, who seemed to know everyone. He pointed out roles like a commentator at a sports match. “That’s Ella leading Daisy — she’s the steadiest mare we’ve got. The two people beside her are side walkers. They’ll stay with the riders every step. Safety belt and helmet checks happen here, then once the horn blows they set off round the ring.”