She cleared her throat—just a little louder than usual. She didn’t want to be rude, but she couldn’t sleep, and if Minnie would only wake up, maybe between the two of them they could solve some of the problems swirling around in Irma’s mind. Minnie stirred, then snuggled deeper beneath the peach-colored satin comforter and began to snore. With a sigh, Irma slid to the edge of the cushioned chair and pretended to hold Diamond’s reins. Closing her eyes, she mentally re-created her routine—for probably the hundredth time since giving up on sleep and climbing out of bed. When she visualized failure—again—she sighed and sank back into the chair. I can’t do it. It’s been too long. Diamond and I worked hard yesterday, but I still only landed that dismount one time. Daddy will be embarrassed. Bill Cody and Mr. Salsbury will think their time’s been wasted. Helen Keen will laugh out loud. And Shep— Who knew what Shep would do? She was thinking entirely too much about Shep Sterling.
