Every since her mother died three years ago, Melanie had become a bit of an introvert. Boys were constantly calling on her and she was always turning them down.

"How about a lovely gold necklace. I saw the perfect one in a store on the avenue. You could wear it at your party."

"What party?"

"Why your birthday party, of course."

"Did I say I wanted a birthday party?"

"Melanie, don't be silly. It's your sweet sixteen party. It's a ritual everyone's looking forward to."

"But I don't want it."

"But I insist. It'll be a chance to socialize a bit. You've been stuck around the farm too much."

"What's wrong with horseback riding."

"Why nothing. But there are other things you know."

"Like what?"

"Like pretty things that all girls your age want, jewelry and such. Besides, the party will give you the opportunity to get to know Larry better. He was here just the other day looking for you, but you were out riding Lightning."

"I don't want to be with Larry. He bores me."

"Very well, what about Carter Marington. He's a nice young boy. He's a perfect gentleman, and believe me, a father should know."

"He doesn't like to ride horses."

"You could teach him. He could have the pick of the breed. Let him ride Lightning. He's very tame."

"No," Melanie shrieked, "that's impossible."

Franklin Barker did not know what he had said to make his daughter so upset. He had merely suggested the obvious thing.

For a person just learning to ride, Lightning was the perfect choice. He rarely bucked and took to people easily.

"Are you going to get me the saddle or not."

"There are better things for a young girl. Why not come to town with me today and pick out whatever you like."

"I can't. It's time for me and Lightning to go on our morning ride."

What was her damn obsession with that stupid horse? Her father decided to put his foot down, this was getting ridiculous.