Chapter 2 A FATEFUL ENCOUNTER

It was an autumn day in Queens, the day fate with its unpredictable twists, introduced Bryan Argol into my life and altered my destiny forever. The scent of falling leaves hung in the cool breeze mixing with the familiar smell of hay and damp earth from the stable. It was a calm morning.

The Dawn's Equestrian Center was a hidden oasis among the skyscrapers in the city. It has always been my sanctuary. My beloved parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dawn Rango had spent most of their lives converting the ancient stable into a modern facility without altering its historic and timeless charm. They poured all their love into this stable to make it more than a business place but a sanctuary and a home. As I grew up here, I learned everything that made this place what it was. I enjoyed the peacefulness that followed watching and training the horses. This place was my escape from the rush of the city.

On this fateful morning, during my usual routine of grooming the horses, cleaning the stalls, and getting everything set for the day's business, the horses whinnied loudly as their ears inclined to the sound of an approaching motorcycle from outside the wooden gates. And I turned my head curiously to see who it was, he dismounted from his motorcycle. Bryan Argol; a name I did not yet know but would soon be carved in my memory forever. He had a very charming figure; he wore a fitted shirt and dark jeans that complemented his tall frame. His move was effortless and he seemed like a confident man. He had a strong jawline with angles that were highlighted by the sunlight. He had a subtle smile that seemed warm and mysterious.

For a moment I was lost. The noise of the city seemed to disappear, leaving just the two of us. My heart throbbed loudly but I managed to straighten up, determined not to let my nervousness show. I walked to where he stood as my blonde curly hair, worn in a ponytail, bounced slightly with every step I took. My shy grey eyes met his as if searching for something.

"Hello there". I greeted him with a tone that was made to sound stiff, void of nervousness.

He turned to face me fully, and for a moment, I thought I saw something in his eyes that seemed like recognition or interest; I was not sure. But it sent a sense of chill through my spine.

"Hi, good morning to you". He replied with a deep smooth voice. "My name is Bryan Argol, and I am interested in buying a Mare from your stable."

I tightened my fingers around the brush I still held and gave a nod. "I am Miss Tessy Dawn, and you are welcome".

A soft smile appeared on his face as he said, "Nice meeting you, Miss Tessy".

We approached the stables; I took a glance at him as he was taking in every detail. He looked carefully at the horses with admiration in his eyes.

"This is an incredible place," he said under his breath. "It is a peaceful sanctuary as opposed to the city".

His words meant a lot to me. Only a few understood the meaning and significance of this place to me and my family.

"Yes, it truly is". I replied. "This place was built by my parents with love. It is not just a business to us but a legacy".

He nodded his head and something told me he understood. At least, the sincerity of his expression did. As we arrived at a spot in the stables, I could sense that his attention was drawn to a mare in the stall. Lola was a gorgeous mare. My sister, Mira, and I had taken pleasure in grooming her especially. She was sleek and graceful.

"Her name is Lola". I said as I reached out to stroke her mane and she nuzzled my palm.

I noticed Bryan observing with keen interest as I connected with Lola. "Your connection is remarkable". He spoke. There was a deep sense of admiration in his tone.

I caught him staring at me and we locked our gaze, and for a moment, I felt visible. He shifted his gaze back to the mare, and we talked about her temperament, strength, and what Bryan wanted in a horse. We had an effortless and smooth conversation. We talked about the farm and even our matters. His questions were thoughtful. He was different from every other rich client I had ever come in contact with in Queens, who only took horses as a symbol of strength. Bryan seemed to honestly care about them.

As the sunlight penetrated the windows of the stables, I felt an unfamiliar sensation creeping in; it was hope. Bryan didn't seem like just a random customer, he was peculiar. He viewed things deeper and it made me curious about this stranger.

After we had concluded our business, it was time for him to depart. He paused for a while at the doorway of the stable. " My assistant will come and pick up the mare by sundown, I sincerely appreciate the tour, and I thank you for selling me your favorite horse, Miss. Tessy". He spoke without shifting his gaze from mine.

I gave a shy smile and tucked a stray curl of my hair behind my ear. "It is my pleasure; you are always welcome here, anytime."

He seemed like he wanted to say something more, but hesitated and slightly nodded as he turned and made his way out.

I watched him walk to where his motorcycle was parked, he turned on the engine and drove off. I watched until his image blended with the landscape. A mixture of anxiety and curiosity overwhelmed me. This day had changed something in me. I wasn't sure what it was, but I was sure the meeting was destiny. The visit of this stranger has shattered a wall in me.