left something undone - jacob

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 417
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Fall Away by The Fray

Raine was standing with her back facing her car, leaning on the drivers door and pulled her blonde waves away from her face. Justin hadn't agreed with what she had been doing at all. Her younger brother hadn't treated the situation well and offered none of his help, instead being distracted by his usual trip to the bar. Raine folded her arms over her chest. She was wearing more casual wear than what she had been wearing what felt like ages ago. It had been quite some time since she last saw Jacob and that had been when he had given her his number, and then driven off to start that long seven hour trip to get his horse back. Every now and again he had sent her something but now it was Raine's turn to give him directions to his new place. Raine really hoped that he liked this place.

Raine finally pushed herself away from the car door, opening it up and leaning into the leather seat of the Dodge Polara and retrieving her cellphone from her bag. She closed the car door and dialled Jacob's number. She held the phone up to her ear and waited for him to answer the phone. She was looking up at the ranch house with its green shutters and its empty paddocks. The previous owners had put it up for sale. It was just out of Westin and on the border of town. It was pretty far out and had taken Raine nearly forty minutes from where she lived near town.

You swear you recall nothing at all
That could make you come back down
You made up your mind to leave it all behind
Now you're forced to fight it out

You fall away from your past
But it's following you

You left something undone, it's now your rerun
It's the one you can't erase
You should have made it right, so you wouldn't have to fight
To put a smile back on your face

Jacob?

She played with the ends of her hair, fixing her eyes on the ground.

Yeah, its Raine. Okay, listen up. Take a turn off the main road by the playground. Take the first right then left. Now just follow the road. There are signs up directing you to the ranch. You'll see its name, yeah.

Raine gave him the directions off of the phone, already feeling anxious at the arrival of his horse. Raine had had a chance to clean herself up and was wearing a beige hoodie and light jeans. They were clothes that she usually wore when she headed up to Silver Stag and this time she actually fitted in with the scenery. Her hair was tied up in a little bun and her make up was natural. Raine felt fresh but she had no idea how Jacob would feel once he finally reached the ranch. Fourteen hours of driving was just something else.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

The blue Ford drove carefully down the road. Jacob's eyes flickered between the road and the trailer behind him, where he heard no sound. He knew Deheya hated trailering, and being in such a state that she was, he was worried sick. He heard his cellphone ring and extracted it from the ashtray. He took the cigarette from his mouth, setting it where his phone had been, and exchanged a few words with Raine.

If tomorrow never comes
Will she know how much I loved her
Did I try in every way to show her every day
That she's my only one
And if my time on earth were through
And she must face the world without me
Is the love I gave her in the past
Gonna be enough to last
If tomorrow never comes

He shifted the gears on the truck, watching carefully for every sign that he could find. He followed each of the directions, and pulled up on a beautiful ranch. His eyes glowed as he saw Raine, and he quickly threw the truck into park and ran out of the car. He quickly pulled Raine into a hug and murmured a quick, "thank you", before running back to the truck. He slammed it into reverse, backing up to the round pen, and shut the truck off. He jumped out, swinging the gate open, before dropping the ramp. Deheya snorted, tossing her head, and Jake quietly undid her lead and backed her down. Her large, potruding stomach showed violently against her ribs and showing hipbones. Jake shuddered, closing the ramp and shutting the gate, before releasing Deheya's lead.

Raine, come in and meet her.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 299
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Raine was actually tempted to pull out the pack of cigarettes sitting in her bag but knew better of it. She didn't want to start bringing that habit out of her social life and into times when she was stressed. If she started doing that then she really would get hooked. She bit down on her lip to suppress the craving but was saved when a Ford with a trailor pulled up into the yard. Jacob was out of that truck like a flash and soon enough he was wrapping his arms around her. Raine laughed and let him go back to his business.

Hello to you too.

She said, pulling the sleeves of her hoodie up to her elbows as she prepared to help him out where need be. Raine helped direct him towards the round pen, backing the trailer up to the gate where he would be able to release Deheya into the round pen. Raine gave Jacob his space as he dropped the ramp and led Deheya out of the trailer. She didn't want to crowd the horse but when the mare revealed herself Raine's hands went up to her mouth. Just seeing this poor horse was enough to tug at her heart strings.

Oh, Jacob.

Now she knew just how terrible the situation had turned for his horse. Upon his encouragement Raine approached. She did so slowly and stood beside Jacob so that his horse recognised her as someone she could trust.

Hey, Deheya.

Raine spoke softly, feeling helpless just looking at her large belly with her ribs and hipbones sticking out horribly.

How far along is she?

Raine's voice choked with emotion. She obviously sympathised with the poor horse. If she knew anything it was that a pregnant horse should not look this neglected.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Deheya placed her head at Jacob's hip, nuzzling his pocket and rubbing her forehead against his chest. She was radiating happiness. She's missed him. Jake rubbed her favorite spot, right on her crown, and murmured baby talk to her. She pricked her ears, leaning her face in close to his and blowing her breath in his face. He returned the gesture, smiling.

Yes, I remember you, angel.

He backed up to talk to Raine, but Deheya followed. She hooked her head around Raine's shoulder, acting as if she was hugging the girl. A frown consumed Jake's features.

She's about nine months. Two to go.

A dark look flashed in his eyes before the happiness took over again. He smiled brilliantly, before laughing.

Seems like my training didn't go to waste, huh beautiful?

He watched Deheya nuzzle Raine's hair, as if it was the most interesting thing in the world, before wandering back to Jake.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 320
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Raine had expected Deheya to be somewhat wary of humans but she appeared to be alright despite her condition. Raine would offer her help because goodness knows she had the time, as well as the fact that she wanted to help Jacob. He owned a new ranch and would have to do a few touch ups here and there. The ranch wasn't in perfect condition, in fact a few of the fences needed to be fixed up and what little food there was had been bought by Raine just a few hours prior to his arrival. She had gotten whatever he asked her to buy from Round 'em Up which had been the start of the strange events that brought the two together.

Raine would never have thought that she would be standing with Jacob here, his horse putting her head over Raine's shoulder. Raine had left her palm out for Deheya to sniff but instead the horse was nibbling at her hair. Raine laughed but not too loudly to spook Deheya, trying to hold in her giggles by biting her lip. She stroked the mare's neck and gave her muzzle a fond little scratch as the mare returned to Jacob.

She's lovely.

Raine was enthused with the mare already. So she had just two months to go.

Do you think you'll be able to bring her to term safely?

Raine approached now, gently putting her hand on the mare's neck and over her matted mane. Raine's eyes looked to her bulging belly then back at Jacob. She had seen how his eyes had stormed over and how his anger racked his body. She had a temper herself but thus far Raine had had no real mood swings in Westin. Jacob, on the other hand, seemed on the brink with his anger. However Raine hoped that his happiness that Deheya was with him again would override all of his anger.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Jake pondered Raine's question for a moment, rubbing the back of his neck. It was unseasonably warm winter day and he had no jacket adorning his body. He sniffed deeply, trying to clear his sinuses, which were becoming clogged, and sighed.

I really hope so. I don't see how she's so big at only seven months. But we'll have to see.

He grabbed the lead rope, and clipped it on Deheya's halter. She walked calmly for the gate, and Jake eased it open and squeezed them both through. He held it for Raine, and they made their way to the barns.

Which one is for mares?

He guessed the blue one, but wasn't sure. As he waited for Raine's answer, he decided to add one statement.

Would you mind getting a stall ready for her? Then I can make her some bran mash.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 392
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

She is pretty big.

Raine had seen pregnant mares back at the stables that she had visited back in L.A. She just couldn't figure whether Deheya's stomach looked bigger because of her weight problem or that she actually was carrying alot more around with her. Raine followed as Jake let the mare out of the round pen and closed the gate behind her. She jogged a little to catch up with Jake's long stride and before she had a chance to answer his question he was asking her for a favour.

I'm here to help. So of course I don't mind.

Raine offered him her bright smile, her gait suddenly a lot bouncier. She was happy for him and could not contain herself.

The blue one's for mares. Go figure.

Raine joked, since the traditional colour for the boys was blue but obviously the previous owner had gone for a different style. Raine walked with Jacob to the barn, walking on Deheya's other side.

You can just tie her up here and I'll get her stall ready.

Raine had opened the barn door to allow Jake the freedom to lead Deheya through and then left a small gap open, it was just enough space for one of them to get through but not broad enough for a horse. Raine pointed out a hook on the wall, its purpose especially for people to tie up their horses whilst they were saddled. Raine had left the hay bales in the aisle and really should have prepared a stall earlier but she had been running around preparing everything else. She picked up the hay bale and hauled it into the stall, breaking the ties and using a pitch fork to spread the warm bedding all over the padded floor. Next she had to fill the water bucket. The thing was damn heavy and Raine huffed as she pulled the bucket into the stall, sitting it in a corner for Deheya. When she left the stall to stand alongside Deheya, Jacob had returned.

Now doesn't that look yum.

Raine smiled, turning her head to gently stroke Deheya's cheek. She certainly did hope that Deheya made it through the last two months with her health returning to give her enough strength to birth and raise her foal...or foals, rather, not that either Jacob nor Raine was aware.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Jake nodded, tying up Deheya and made a low sound in his throat. She shook her head up and down, showing the white mark on her forehead, and he grinned. He walked into a small room- a lounge?- and filled up a bucket with bran. He added just enough water to soak all of the bran, and added a large handful of salt before pulling off his overshirt and covering the top of the bucket. His wifebeater was tight on his chest, and the cold bit through, but he was more concerned about steaming the bran for Deheya. He walked back out, his bucket still covered with his shirt. He heard Raine's comment, and grinned.

The bran, or me?

He teased. He pulled off the shirt, dropping it on a halter hook and hooking the bucket in the stall before leading Deheya into the stall. The mare let out a whinny of happiness, burying her face in the bran. He gently pulled her head up, and grinned.

Easy, sweety. Not too much, too fast.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 264
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Raine's eyes had widened at Jacob's comment as he came up to the two. She hadn't expected his comment but she just had to laugh aloud.

Don't even tempt me to answer.

Good god she was going to need a fan for herself in a moment. It was next to freezing outside but Jacob in that wifebeater was just too much for Raine. She would admit that she had a weakness for big muscles and he sure as well wasn't helping her kick the habit of ogling. She just had to keep her eyes off and return her attention back to Deheya. As Jacob led her in, Raine suddenly stood to attention.

Oh, wait. I'll be right back.

Raine ducked out of the stall and slipped through the open gap between the barn doors. When next she returned she had his old leather jacket in hand. She hadn't returned it to him before he had left and had kept it in her car for him. She returned to the stall and leaned over the door, holding it out to him.

Put it on for my sake.

Raine joked, grinning as she craned to see Deheya.

I'm so happy that she's taking to it so well.

Raine leaned on her hand, tilting her head as she watched Deheya grab at the bran under Jacob's watchful eye in case she ate too much too quickly. Raine admired the horse, wondering what she looked like in her prime.

And she's such a sweety. Just like Cowboy.

Raine mused, remembering her dun horse back at the other ranch.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Jake pulled on the worn jacket, shifting in it's familiarity, and kept his eyes on Deheya. He cast a sly smile in Raine's direction, before slipping back into the stall. He motioned for Raine to come in, and extracted a hoof pick from his back pocket.

Come on, angel. Give it up.

She easily obliged, lifting her hoofs each in turn and allowing Jake to clean them out. He smiled, realizing that none of his training had gone to waste, and gently kissed her leg. She flicked her tail, catching him on the back of the neck, and he winced, but laughed.

I have to go furniture shopping.

Jake let out a groan, dramatically laying his arm across his face.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 183
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Raine gave him a bemused look as he cast her that sly smile of his. How on earth was she suppose to stay honest with him walking around in a wifebeater. Raine's bemused look didn't last long as she finally cracked a smile, shaking her head and following him into the stall. Raine folded her arms over her chest and stood with her shoulder against the wall, letting him go about his business.

Raine put her hand over her mouth, holding back another bout of laughter as he dramatically laid his arm over his face.

Such a guy. Stop being a drama queen - the shopping is most of the fun.

Raine was an enthusiastic shopper. She had been raised in L.A. after all and buying good clothes for a night out was one of her favourite past times.

I checked out the house and the one thing they left behind was the kitchen sink and kitchen cupboards.

Raine's smile broadened as she watched Jacob.

And I ban you from buying boring furniture. You've gotta dress that place up a bit, macho man.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Jake stared at Raine, horrified. He absolutely hated shopping. He'd rather sleep in the barn with Deheya than have to shop for his new house. Speaking of the house, he hadn't been inside yet, but he wasn't in a hurry.

I'll be happy with a table, some chairs, and a bed. That's good for me.

He shifted inside of the leather jacket, and sneezed. Deheya's head flew up, but that was about the extent of her spook. She lowered her head, continuing to eat, and Jake stood up. His knees cracked, and he winced, but he turned to face Raine.

You have to come with me, then. And I get to choose my own bedsheets and bedspread.

A bemused smile curved up his features, and he stretched.

My room's theme is going to be wolfs. Alright?

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 196
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Raine returned his horrified expression at the mention of just a few things.

You're awful.

She sounded exasperated and shook her head.

Even my brother has better taste.

Raine countered, eyeing Jacob as he spoke on. At the mention of wolves Raine could only imagine a big pair of yellows watching him whilst he slept. She smiled amusedly and adjusted herself, now leaning against the wall with her back.

No pink sheets? Shame on you.

Raine leaned her head back and then ticked off all of the basic things in her head, then spoke aloud.

I promise you its not the end of the world. Plus trying out couches is the best part. And the beds. They didn't find it so funny when I messed up their display, though.

Raine put a finger over her lips and then looked towards Jacob.

And wolves? Favourite animal? Besides the obvious.

The "obvious" was horses. Raine smiled, turning her head to cast a glance at Deheya.

We'd better leave it until she takes a rest. And if she ever needs company I can bring Cowboy over. He's an absoloute sweetheart.

Her gelding really was a reflection of Deheya's personality.

[Jacob T. Forester;]

Jake's face molded into what he tried to make seem a "wise, old, elder Indian", and he spoke in a deep, gruff voice.

Wolves protect both you and the ones who you care about. They're the smartest animals that live in the wild, and avoid unnecessary hassles.

A smirk played on his features, and he allowed himself to move back to normal.

Why don't we go now? And wouldn't Wyatt be sort of anxious if one of the horses left?

He sighed, stretching again, and shut Deheya's stall door and pushing the lock into place. He motioned towards his truck, and grinned.

My dog's here, now, too. I'll put her in the barn. She and Deheya are the best of friends.

He strode out to the truck, pulling open the door, and out jumped a lithe German Shorthaired Pointer. She wiggled in happiness, jumping up and licking his face. Noticing Raine, she tilted her head and trotted up to the girl. She gently sniffed her hand, licked her, and ran into the barn and scratched at Deheya's stall.

You can go in when we get back, Zi.

Jake slid the door shut, and walked back to his truck. He climbed into the drivers seat, turned on the truck, and turned the heat on high, rubbing his hands together.

[/blockquote]

[Raine Adylin]

Word Count: 362
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt? So long as I give him the reason why, I'm sure he'd understand. He'd only worry if it was one of his horses.

Raine shrugged off any worry over the subject. The only one who would be lonely was Desert Dancer but she was quite sure that Jump Scat would be quick to pick up the lonely mare. He may be a gelding but he certainly had been taking his chances with Dancer as of late. However Raine had been approached by Wyatt and if all went well with both horses, they wanted to breed the two Nokota's and carry on their rare bloodline. Raine was ecstatic to see Dancer's future foal.

Raine walked with Jacob out to his truck, first making the stop by her own car to retrieve her handbag just in case there was something in the shop window that she couldn't resist. Raine was surprised to hear that Jacob had brought his dog along. She hadn't heard the dog barking at all.

Your dog would eat my little kitten alive.

Raine mused, thinking of her little kitten back at her gran's house. Scruffy was still as cute as a button but growing out of his kittenish looks and looking more and more like a miniature version of an adult cat. Raine climbed into the seat once Jacob's dog had inspected her hand and then left for the barn. They pulled away and made the long haul back into town.

A long while later Raine was climbing out of the truck, her laughter ringing out.

Jake, you're just something else.

She shook her head and hauled her own little parcels out of the truck. Of course she had bought a few clothes here and there, much to Jacob's bemusement but they had gotten through all of it. The furniture was ordered and would be arriving within a few days.

At least you got your wolf things.

She tried to ease his horror at having to go shopping, her grin showing her pearly whites as she crossed around to the front of the truck. She had already dropped off her parcels in the boot of her own Dodge car.