Rancher and Protector. Pamela Britton

to the reins in case the animal beneath her—a very big animal—decided to bolt, or to charge, or to buck and twist to throw her off.

      “Maybe it’s nothing to you,” she said. “But it’s a big deal to me. I feel like I’ve conquered the world.” She smiled.

      “You’re right. No big deal.” He turned on his booted heel and began to leave.

      “Hey!” she cried.

      But he didn’t turn back.

      “Hey!” she called again, louder.

      He walked away.