Chapter 11: Shocking News

As the server removed their plates and topped up everyone's glass, Cathy's father stood up from his seat.

"Thank you for joining me tonight for this celebration," he began. "As you are aware, Catherine doesn't know why we've gathered together, so it's going to be a big surprise for her, and I know she'll be thrilled, just as we all are. It's a momentous project, one that will put Crystal Valley on the map."

Though she knew her father would announce a new shopping center or office tower, she looked up at him and pretended to be enthralled.

"Please, raise you glasses to the success of the Crystal Valley Equestrian Park."

A hot rush flooded her face, and her heart skipped like a stone bouncing across a calm lake.

"E-equestrian P-park?" she stammered.

"World class, covering all disciplines," her father exclaimed proudly. "Dressage, three-day eventing, even reining and barrel racing. Renaldo will be overseeing the show jumping venue."