Von Stall zu Stall

Claire’s father had called — repeatedly. I found her out on the paddocks.

Gillian: “Claire, your dad has called what feels like 341 times. Maybe you should call him back.”

Claire: “Yes, I will. I actually wanted to ask you something… Could I stable King and Hyacinth here at Meadowland? I’ll pay for everything, of course. Just think about it.”

It clearly took some courage, but Claire called her father back.

Claire: “Hi Dad. You called? I miss you. How’s Mum? Give her my love.”

Mr. Riverton: “We miss you too, Claire. I’d like to talk to you properly. Rowan was here and explained your point of view. Maybe not everything in competitive sport runs the way it should — but it’s our livelihood. Your decision came as a shock. You should have spoken to us first. When you’re ready to talk, call me. I love you.”

Claire wanted to bring her horses to Meadowland — but our stable was full. So I talked to Jamie.

Gillian: “Claire wants to bring two of her horses here. But the stable is full, and they can’t stay outside — they’re champions.”

Jamie: “If you want, I’ll put two of mine out. John once told me George planned to expand the stable. There are already blueprints. Let’s take a look.”

John brought the construction plans.

John: “George planned to add six more stalls — see here? But we can also do the renovation in stages without increasing overall costs. If you only need space for two horses right now, I can start with two stalls.”

Jamie: “That would be enough for now. And if necessary, I’ll move my hardy ones to the open stable.”

Gillian: “If it’s financially reasonable and won’t cause extra costs later, we’ll start with two.”

Luckily, we quickly found a construction company, and work began almost immediately.

Gillian: “The extension is progressing fast. How was the call with your father?”

Claire: “The fact that you’re expanding the stable because of me — thank you. The conversation was calm… but emotional. Dad wants to talk again. I just need a little more time before I’m ready.”

After only a few weeks, the extension was finished.

Gillian: “Ta-da! The new stalls are ready! Claire, you can finally bring your horses.”

Claire: “It’s fantastic. I don’t even know how to thank you, Gillian. I’ll call Rowan — he offered to help me pick them up.”

Claire and Rowan drove to the Jorvik Stables.

Claire: “It feels so strange. I’m leaving this stable with my horses for the last time.”

Rowan: “It’s a new beginning for all of you. They’ll settle in quickly.”

As they drove away with the trailer, Mr. Riverton watched them go. “Take care of yourself, my child… and come home whenever you want.” Back at Meadowland, I was eating a sandwich when Jamie walked in.

Jamie: “You do remember that you owe me dinner from our Jarlaheim trip, right?”

Gillian: “Oh no… I completely forgot! Tell you what — just take half my sandwich and eat it!”