Keegan froze upon hearing what the horse trainer had said.” This horse got injured?”
“Mr. Moore was riding this horse during your race with him. The horse went out of control because of the injury. Look, right here on its neck.”
Ron lifted the horse’s head, revealing a long gash beneath its mane. “There’s a big cut here. Not sure what caused it, maybe a nail. When the reins tightened, the wound got worse. That’s why the horse got jumpy and hard to control.”
He went on, “The wound’s taking ages to heal. It’s been over a month, and some parts still don’t have fur. Probably the reins touched it while the horse was running, causing such a reaction.”
Ron cared deeply for the horses he worked with year-round. Worried Keegan might sell or put the horse down, he pleaded, “This horse is usually really calm and even won awards. If it weren’t for the injury, it wouldn’t have acted up. Just give me some time, Mr. Kane. I’ll train it well.”
Lost in thought, Keegan snapped back, “I don’t recall any of that. Was Marshall hurt during that time?”
“No, Mr. Moore wasn’t injured. But your arm dislocated from saving him.”
Keegan fell silent for a moment and said, “Thankfully, nothing major occurred today. But if there’s another incident, we’ll have to get rid of this horse. We can’t keep one that causes harm.”
Ron immediately assured him, “There won’t be a next time, I promise.”
Keegan stood there, looking at the horse’s wound briefly, then turned and walked away.
Meanwhile, Stella called Luke on her way back.
“Dr. Quinn, are you currently in Rivera?”
“Yes, I am. Can we meet? I have something to discuss with you.”
“Great, I’ll send you my location when I arrive.”
After hanging up, Stella drove to a Chinese restaurant not far from where Luke was giving a lecture.
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