Jolene had just stepped a little farther into the yard when it happened. A loud crack split through the air. She turned instantly. The stable door swung loose, wood splintered at the edge—and Keola burst through. Running straight toward her. Jolene froze. “Keola—?” Her voice caught. Something about the way the horse moved didn’t feel right. Too fast. Too intense.
Her heart began to race. She stepped back. Then another. But Keola was already closing the distance. “Rick!” Jolene shouted. By the time she tried to turn, Keola had reached her. Jolene screamed—But instead of crashing into her, the horse pressed in close. Tight. Her neck curled around Jolene’s shoulders, pulling her in. Not gentle. Not controlled.
Keola’s head dropped suddenly, pressing near her stomach. Nudging. Again. Again. Sharp breaths. Loud huffs. Uneasy, frantic sounds. “Hey—stop!” Jolene gasped, trying to pull away. Then— A sudden, sharp pain shot through her back. She cried out again. Keola jerked, more agitated now. Behind them, the door slammed open.
“Jolene!” Ricky ran toward them, eyes locked on the scene. And from where he stood…his wife was being attacked by his horse.