Free Sample
Preview from chapter one
With the curtains drawn and the room suffused in a gentle twilight, I stretch out on my bed, feeling the softness of the quilt beneath me. I reach over to the bedside table and turn on the vintage radio, tuning it to a local station that plays a mix of indie tunes and old classics. The music fills the room, a soothing melody that whispers sweet nothings to my soul. It's a lazy Friday afternoon, and I've got nothing to do but let the world spin around me. The DJ's voice, smooth and familiar, weaves through the tracks, sharing bits of local news and upcoming events. I close my eyes and let the rhythm of the songs guide my thoughts, my mind drifting to the distant horizon of imagination.
Suddenly, the DJ's voice cuts through the music, "Alright, folks, it's time for 'Lightning Lucky Five!' The fifth caller gets to walk away with a prize that'll make you feel like you're on top of the world!" My eyes fly open at the sound of the announcement. It's not every day you hear about something like this. I sit up, heart racing. What could it be? A concert ticket? A weekend getaway? My curiosity is piqued, and I can't resist the urge to call. I dial the number, my fingers trembling slightly, hoping to be the chosen one.
The line rings, once, twice, three times. "Hello? You're the fifth caller!" The excitement in the DJ's voice sends a jolt through me. "What's your name?" "It's Gabriela," I reply, trying to sound cool despite the adrenaline coursing through my veins. "Well, Gabriela, today's your lucky day! You've won a private horseback riding lessons with Laura, the one and only, from Sunset Stables!"
"Wow, that's amazing!" I squeal, bouncing slightly on the bed. The DJ chuckles, "But before we get too ahead of ourselves, we have a couple of quick questions to make sure you're the perfect fit for Laura's expertise. First up, how old are you, sweetheart?" I reply with a smile, "I'm 20, turning 21 in a couple of months." The DJ scribbles something down. "And have you ever been horseback riding before?" "Well, I took a few lessons when I was younger, but it's been a while," I admit, the memory of the wind in my hair and the powerful beat of hooves under me bringing a nostalgic smile to my face. "Fantastic! Laura is known for her patience and ability to work with riders of all levels," the DJ assures me. "We'll be in touch with the details soon. Enjoy your prize!" With that, the line goes dead, and I'm left in the quiet of my room, the radio still playing its soothing tunes.