Chapter 27

“I just wanta congratulate all of ya on the fine job y’all have done this week. You’ve made Reynolds Quarter Horses proud. Here’s to the next week, the New Year, and hope we do as well next year as we did this.”

There was a general jumble of thanks and clinking of glasses.

Hank continued, “Let’s eat and have a good ti…”

Reggie stood and interrupted. “May I have your attention. Attention please. I’d like to propose a toast.”

Everyone quieted down and turned to Reggie.

“And here’s to Hank,” he said, smiling warmly at the cowboy standing next to him.

Brad closed his eyes, bowed his head, and put a hand to his forehead.

“…without whom,” Reggie continued, “none of this would be possible. His guidance, understanding, and stalwart faith in us have brought us the success we celebrate tonight. So let’s toast this wonderful man who has done so much for each of us, especially me. He reached out to me when no one else would and welcomed me into this wonderful family.