Next up was the black stallion, who snorted and stamped his feet as he was led around the ring.
The bidding started in earnest, but the more unruly the horse became, the more bidders dropped out, until Ludlow was the last remaining bidder.
“You sure you can handle that beast?” Chandler asked.
“Of course. I think he and I are going to have a great partnership.”
“I wish you well with him,” Chandler said.
“Now this is a good day,” Ludlow said. “See anything that catches your eye, Chandler?”
Chandler shook his head. “Not any more. You two got the best stallions available. I can wait for another day.”
After giving directions for where his stallion was to be delivered, Easton excused himself. “I’ll see you both later. I’m off to meet my father.”
Ludlow and Chandler nodded.
“See you at Gentlemen Jack’s,” Ludlow said.
“I’ll be there,” Easton said before making his way to Devon House. He wanted to tell his father about the new horse, since it would be stabled there for the foreseeable future.
The air was quite crisp for April as Easton walked up the stairs to Devon House.
“Good day, my lord. How may I help you?” the butler asked, opening the door wide to allow him to enter.
“Jeffers, have you seen my father?”
“He’s in his study.”
Easton nodded, gave over his hat and cane, strode down the hall to the last door on the right, and knocked.
“Come,” came the muffled voice inside.
Easton opened the door and found his father sitting behind his large oak desk, studying the document in front of him. “Good day, Father.”
Lord Devon looked up and smiled at his son. “Easton, my boy, what an unexpected pleasure. Have I forgotten an appointment?”
“Not at all. I wanted to let you know I purchased a stallion this morning.”
“Oh? I didn’t know you were in the market for a new horse,” Lord Devon said.
“I wasn’t until I saw this beast,” Easton said. “He’s the most magnificent creature I’ve ever seen. White as the driven snow. I left directions to have him brought here.”
“Of course. There’s room in the mews for him. I’m looking forward to seeing him.”
“I think you’ll be quite impressed. He stands at least seventeen hands.”
“Does this beast, as you called him, have a name?”
“Ares.”
“Ah, the Greek god of war. Very apt, I’m sure.”
“Well, I should go. I wanted to let you know about Ares. I’ll not bother you any further. I can see you’re busy,” Easton said, turning to leave.
“Easton? Do you have a moment to review something for me? I need a new set of eyes on this.”
“Yes, of course.” He took a seat in front of the desk, and his father handed him the document he’d been reviewing.