When Lauren and Chase got off their horses, Chase rushed over to a somber Amos. Lauren took Lucy to her stall and began the rubdown. Chase, after a quick word with Amos, was back on Midnight and riding out of the barn into the rain without so much as a good-bye.

Not wanting to pry, she didn't ask Amos where Chase was going. She was sure if he'd wanted her to know, he would tell her. He was a man who did as he pleased without anyone's permission, especially on his own ranch. ...