The Magic Heart

Laeden was eight years old, Addy was six, and Keenan was four. All of them loved horses and were excited that they would soon see many different types. They watched the horse events together, and the kids spotted a brown-and-white pinto named Veloz, who was doing a barrel race. Veloz means “fast” in Spanish, and he was much faster than all the other horses. He won the barrel race and became their favorite horse of all. He had a very soft nose, cute little eyelashes, and a heart shape on his back. Everyone at the show cheered him on. “Go, Veloz!” They loved his speed when racing, his gentle, relaxed nature, and the way he got along well with all the other horses. Although there were many other animals and events to see at the horse show, Laeden chose to stay close to Veloz. They had a special bond that was growing as the day went on. He brushed and fed Veloz, and the owner said Laeden could ride Veloz around the fairgrounds as a thank-you for taking such good care of the horse. Addy tried to persuade Laeden to join her and the others for a stroll through the animal barns to see the pigs, cows, chickens, and rabbits, but Laeden decided to hang out with Veloz and his owner. He knew there wasn’t much time before he would have to go home, and he wanted to spend it with his favorite new friend. Grandma could see the boy and the horse had made a connection, and she allowed him to stay while Addy and Keenan went on to see the other animals. They knew they were getting close to the animal barns when they could smell the animals and hear the farm equipment making funny sounds—clickety-clack, clickety-clack. There were a few barns lined up side by side, housing all the different animals. Addy shouted, “Wow, look at all the animals!” Keenan and Addy giggled as the baby pigs grunted and nudged at their mother to drink milk. There were baby cows and rabbits too. This was always a great family outing; everyone had so much fun! It was now time to pick up Laeden for their picnic lunch before going home. Grandma noticed that Laeden was very quiet. “What are you thinking about, Laeden?” asked Grandma. “I am thinking about how much I love Veloz. I wish he were mine!” “Aww, honey, I could see that you love him. He is a very special horse, and you are a very special boy!” said Grandma. “Thank you, Grandma, but will you buy him for me?” said Laeden. Grandma replied, “He is not for sale, honey. The owner wants to keep him because he loves him too.” Laeden was sad they couldn’t bring Veloz home with them, but Grandma gave him some good advice…