Original subtitles

Oh, yes!

It's just that was a really hard jump

and she just cleared it.

- Wow, that's good then? - It's great.

So she just has to get through the next round

without any faults, and then she gets a ribbon.

Great.

I'm sorry, I get a little carried away with this stuff.

Oh, no problem. So do you ride?

- I used to. - Used to? Why'd you stop?

No reason.

I just stopped.

And your online profile says that you're a writer?

I am. I write for "Compass" magazine.

- Oh, yeah, I read that. - Really?

Yeah, have you written anything I'd know?

Well, I did a piece on the history

of personalized dinnerware.

Nope. Okay, I did another story

on therapeutic macrame.

- I don't think I saw those. - Well, now you'll never know

the difference between a square knot and a half hitch.

Mm.

Here we go.

Okay, there she goes.

Ah, oh.

- Bad luck. - Bad luck?

Yeah, I mean, she almost made it.

People train their entire lives for this.

They give up their friends.

They give up their social lives.

They give up anything that isn't about winning.

So I wouldn't exactly call it... luck.

I didn't mean to say that there wasn't

some skill involved.

I'm sorry.

- It's okay. - No, I'm sorry.

I get a little carried away with this stuff.

Let's change the subject. Okay. Ha.

Let's talk about you. Ha. Okay.

So, um, how long have you lived in the city, David?

Actually, it's Paul.

You know, honey, we would really love to see you.

You're overdue for a visit.

I know. I'm sorry. I miss you, too.

How's Dad? Alex?

We have some big news.

Guess who's hosting the championships this year.

What?

We didn't want to tell you until we knew for sure.

But the Northeastern Championships

are going to be held right here at Meadowbrook.

That is huge news! That's incredible.

Who's riding?

Isn't it tradition for the host

to have a rider in the competition?

Mm-hmm. And that would be your father.

Dad is riding?

We're gonna have the best in the country competing right here

on the very course where you used to ride.

Wow. How is he feeling? Is he ready?

- Oh, hang on. - Oh, no, it's okay.

It's Sam.

Hi, Dad.

Oh, hey, Sam.

Congrats on the event.

- Yep. - Are you prepped? Ready?

Getting there.

Well, um, who are you riding?

- Rascal. - Oh, the new horse.

I can't wait to meet him.

Well, that would require you coming home.

Yeah, um, I gotta go check on the horses.

- Okay, honey. - Bye, Sam.

- You do... you do that. - Bye, Dad.

- He's got a lot on his mind. - Yeah.

I mean, well, you know, he hasn't competed in years.

I'm sure he would love to have you here

cheering him on, honey. In person.

Depends on work.

Speaking of, I have to get to sleep.

I have a big meeting in the morning with my editor.

Oh, okay. Well, love you, honey.

I love you too. Good night, Mom.

How you doing, Rascal?

Huh?

Want a little dessert? There you go.

Yeah, that's my boy.

Oh, my boy.

You can really be an old bear sometimes.

What are you talking about?

I'm talking about you and Samantha.

Bonnie, come on. You know I don't like that video stuff.

It's not personal.

So what was your excuse when she came home

in person last Christmas?

Or Easter weekend?

Or her birthday?

Bonnie, we don't have a whole lot to talk about, that's all.

Well, you could have told her what's going on.

Why do I have to do it?

She should hear it from you.

Am I really an old bear?

Sometimes.

But you're my old bear.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

But that due time, don't make it past due.

You too?

- Oh, Samantha. - Yes?

I don't have much time today,

so we'll make this quick. Kay.

It's about your travel story.

- Yes? - No.

- No? - Not for the cover.

Oh.

Look, Samantha, you have talent.

I could see that when you were a freelancer for us.

And I brought you on as a staff writer

because I believe in that talent.

And I really appreciate that.

But "Compass" is a lifestyle magazine.

And our readers want to feel that the stories

are coming from your own experience.

I guess I just felt like they were.

They're very well constructed.

You're an excellent writer.

But your stories don't feel as if you've lived them.

That makes it difficult for our readers to connect with you.

My mother is famous for her dinner parties.

So I am very well versed in personalized dinnerware.

That felt very real to me.

But therapeutic macrame...

I can see how that might not be a home run.

For anyone.

Can I give you a little advice?

Please.

If you want to make the cover,

bring me a story that only you can write.

Bring me a story with Samantha in it.

- Okay. - Okay.

Oh, what do you mean?

- Are you okay? - I'm fine.

I'm just trying to find some empathy.

- Okay. - Got it.

You have a wall.

You write from your head, not your heart.

And if you can find a way to break that wall, well,

then I believe you can deliver a cover-worthy story.

Okay, um, thank you, Amanda.

I will get started on the... my wall right away.

I feel really good about this.

We're done here. Oh, yeah, yes.

Okay. Um, thank you.

You need some more room? You need some more?

You good, Shadow?

Sorry.

You're gonna break his heart, you know.

You're not gonna come by and say hello?

I am so sorry, Shadow.

Please forgive me.

Working on anything new at the magazine?

As a matter of fact, I am.

I just don't know what that is yet.

Oh.

Well, I'm sure you'll figure something out.

Won't she, Shadow?

Yeah.

You sure do have a way with horses.

Yes, I do.

Thank you, Chauncey. Thank you, Shadow.

Not a problem.

Have a good day, Sam.

That's very exciting. I can't wait.

Yeah, that'd be terrific.

All right, I can't wait to see you.

Drive safely.

Love you.

Is Sam coming home?

Your sister is writing an article

about the Northeastern Championships for her magazine.

How long's she gonna be here?

A couple of weeks, I think.

Wait.

You guys have told her, haven't you?

About Luke?

Uh, not... not in so many words.

Right, dear?

I mean, she can just find out when she gets here.

It'll make for a nice surprise.

Most people know

they don't surprise someone with their ex-husband.

That went well.

I should warn you, Samantha.

I have very high expectations for this article.

Well, I am just really happy

that you're interested in the story.

Equestrian events are elegant, expensive, and iconic.

They're perfect for the "Compass" brand.

Even for the cover?

We can talk about that after you submit the story.

Keep your receipts.

Will do. Thank you so much, Amanda.

Is something different with the blueberries?

I think it makes a world of difference.

I will be right with you. Ashley.

Hi. Oh, my gosh.

Samantha, hi. How are you?

So good. How are you?

I don't think I've seen you since... Fairfield?

- Has it been that long? - I think so.

Some days I barely remember I even went to college.

Same.

Do you work here now? Kind of.

I own the place.

I bought it from Ed Crawford

last year. That is amazing.

Congratulations. Thank you.

So what brings you to town?

You moved to New York, right?

- Yes, writing assignment. - Oh.

I am doing a story on the championships

at my parents' place. That's exciting.

Um, I have to ask.

Ed used to make these insanely delicious cinnamon rolls?

Yeah, I had a feeling you were gonna ask about them.

I have the recipe.

- I will take a half a dozen. - Coming up.

Great.

They're just out of the oven.

These... these pictures are beautiful.

Who took these?

Actually, I did.

- Really? - Mm-hmm.

They're really beautiful. You have such a good eye.

- Really? - Yeah.

Thank you.

One day, I just picked up a camera and started shooting.

Figured I was never gonna do anything with them,

so I figured I'd just decorate the place.

That's Luke.

Hmm?

Luke Travers.

We used to be married.

Right, yeah, of course. I... I knew that.

I, uh, bumped into him at the park

and I snapped it there.

It's a really nice shot of him.

Order's ready.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

On the house, Sam.

- Really? - Yeah, of course.

Thank you so much.

Say hi to your mom and dad for me, okay.

I will, I will. Good to see you.

- Bye. - Yeah, bye.

I want the larger tent on the north lawn,

lights along all the walkways in the perimeter.

And let's set up both bars

on opposite sides of the east lawn.

But I don't want it too close to the edge.

Did you all get that? Okay, good.

'Cause I don't want anyone falling off the edge.

Excuse me.

- Hi, Mom. - You're early!

Well, for once, traffic was actually good.

I'll just get my stuff later.

Hi.

Oh, it's so good to see you.

Oh, it's so good to see you too.

In person.

I mean, that face camera thing is all right

every once in a while, but I like to hug my baby.

I know, me too.

Yay.

Okay, I have your room set up for you.

I hear footsteps.

I thought I heard you

driving in.

How's my favorite sister?

Well, since I'm your only sister,

I'll say that I'm great.

I am so glad that you're here.

- Me too. - Mom and Dad too.

- Dad said that? - Of course not.

Though he might have told a horse.

I'm gonna go see the horses. Yeah, yeah.

Hi. Yes.

Hey, Buttercup. Oh, you pretty thing.

Hi.

Where's the new guy, huh? Where's Rascal?

They wouldn't tell you if they could.

Horses keep their secrets.

One of my dad's favorite expressions.

I've only been here a month,

but I guess he's rubbing off on me.

- Sorry about that. - It's okay.

I'm Sam, I'm the oldest daughter.

Matthew. It's nice to finally meet you.

- Aw. - They talk about you

all the time around here.

Your dad says you used to be one of the best riders in the state.

Well, I... I don't know...

She was the best.

Hey, Dad.

Yeah, glad to see you.

Your mother's been looking forward to this all week.

- So you don't ride anymore. - No.

I stopped a... a few years ago.

Yeah, it's kind of a long story, so...

And we got a lot of work to do, so Matt, come on.

Trucks arrive tomorrow to start setting things up.

Pretty exciting, though? Having the championships here.

It is at that.

See you at dinner.

Matt.

It was nice to meet you, Sam.

Yeah, you too.

I don't know.

Let me check on that and I will call you back. Bye.

Hey, Alex, would you take these up to Sam, please?

She's not up there.

She just went out to the stables.

Already?

Mom.

- I meant to tell her. - You should have.

But since you didn't, let's go tell her now

so I can be there for it.

Oh.

Hi, buddy.

I've waiting to meet you...

Hi.

Hi?

Luke, what are you doing here?

What do you mean?

I mean, what are you doing here, Luke?

Nobody told you, did they?

Told me what?

Your dad hired me to train him for the competition.

I'm the new trainer.

Sam.

Sam, wait. What?

Is that all you're gonna say?

What else do you want me to say?

I don't know. Something more than "What?"

This whole entire thing has caught me

completely off guard, Luke.

Okay, for real, nobody told you I was here?

- Nope. - Okay. Then I apologize.

I mean, when your mother told me that you were coming up here

to write your article, I just, I don't know,

I assumed that somebody would have told you.

One would have thought, right?

Okay, it's my fault.

- Oh. - My fault, I'm afraid.

I was planning on telling you but...

- She chickened out. - I didn't chicken out, no.

I did not chicken out, thank you.

I was just waiting for the perfect moment.

Turns out there is none.

Can I have a word with you in private, please?

Oh, no. Oh, no.

Sir, excuse me.

I would like to speak to you too.

Do either one of you care to explain to me

what my ex-husband is doing here?

Look, I don't need to tell you

it's been years since I competed.

You're not around to ride.

So I had no choice but to step in.

And I need somebody to help me who understands our horses.

And that's Luke.

Look, seriously, Sam, if this is gonna be a problem...

- I told them to tell you. - You could have told me.

What do you not understand about a sidebar?

Thank you.

Okay, Sam, look.

I'm sorry. We should've told you.

We just didn't think you were coming home.

And then when you did, I...

I didn't know how to tell you.

And the truth is we need Luke.

You know how important this event is.

And the best trainer in the whole state

just happens to be your ex-husband.

Yes, of course I know how important this event is.

And Dad, I want you to win.

- It's just two weeks. - I...

But if this really, really,

really, really is difficult for you,

we'll just call the whole thing off.

Mom, it's too late for that.

I mean, hundreds of people are coming.

You and Alex have worked so hard.

Look, we are both adults.

Like you said, it's just two weeks.

If he can do it, so can I.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

Thank you.

Now, if you will excuse me,

I think I'm going to go upstairs and unpack.

- One... I do one thing well. - There we go.

There she is.

Sorry.

Took a minute to settle in.

Hmm.

Let me guess, you over-packed.

Like that time we went to Hawaii.

You say over-packed, I say prepared.

So you had no other dinner plans tonight?

None that compared to your mother's yams.

Since when did you start liking yams?

Oh, when I had them the way your mom prepares them.

- Thank you, Luke. - Of course.

So how is the training going for the championships?

Well, Luke thinks Rascal has a real shot at the win.

Yeah, he is a solid contender.

Hmm, so you guys are just out there, you know,

running the course over and over and over again?

Well, yes and no.

I mean, Preston loves the repetition.

Because it works. Right, Dad?

Yams, please.

But this time, he has agreed to a mixture of training.

Repetition and learning the value

of forming an emotional connection with your horse.

- Wow. - Oh, here we go again.

Yeah, and that horse this time is Rascal,

who is taking to it very well.

And the more time I spend with them, the better they get.

You know, I find that

just doing the same thing over and over and over again

without having an emotional connection doesn't really work.

I would say if there's an actual emotional connection,

then you don't need to learn, you just know.

And... and how would one know

if the other one doesn't let that one in?

Well, how is anyone supposed to know anything

when the other just keeps walking away

when things get sticky?

Talking about horses, of course.

- Yeah, me too. - Of course.

Can someone pass me the yams?

Mm, yeah. Here you go.

- Thank you. - Sweetie, brussels sprouts.

That's terrible.

Hi. Hi.

You still up? Mmhmm.

Trying to write unsuccessfully.

Well, dinner was fun.

That's why I'm here.

Sorry.

I do want to apologize... Mmhmm?

For not telling you about Luke.

They shouldn't have ambushed you like that.

It wasn't fair.

Funny but not fair.

No, it wasn't.

Thank you. I appreciate the apology.

- Mm-hmm? - Mm-hmm.

But Dad really does need Luke, so...

You know how good he is.

I know how stubborn he is.

Oh. Ha.

I forget how much you two push each other's buttons.

Mm.

Does he have dinner here a lot?

Yes, all the time.

I keep telling Dad he should just

put a kitchen in the carriage house.

I'm sorry, what?

Hmm?

You are the gift that keeps on giving aren't you?

Yes, please come inside my humble abode.

Did you... what, are you living here now too?

Know what?

You look like you need a drink.

What happened to our old place, Luke?

No, that place stopped being ours

a long time before I moved out.

Don't do that, don't deflect.

Okay, you know what? This whole thing, here?

Me living here? This was your dad's idea.

Because, I don't know, I'm just working here 100 hours a week.

But maybe it makes too much sense.

I'll just go, okay?

Great. Great. Just walk away. Yep.

'Cause you know what? Things got sticky.

Sam, what do you want? Stay or go?

Because I'm not a mind reader. I never have been.

I want you to want to stay here

and figure this out with me.

- You want that drink now? - Yes.

Okay.

You kept Winston.

I couldn't bear to part with him.

Do you remember how we would just snuggle ourselves onto him

and watch movies for hours?

Yes, I do.

I also remember returning a very expensive,

super comfortable couch

that your parents gave us for our wedding just...

Just so we can... We can hang on to this guy.

So, yeah.

How are we gonna do this?

How are we supposed to peacefully coexist

living next door to each other for the next two weeks?

I don't know.

Good, good, good. Keep your leg on.

That first one was beautiful.

Good, good, just like that.

When we go to the show, I want it just like that.

He's great, isn't he?

Takes those fences with confidence.

Not too showy.

Graceful, effortless.

I think he's got a real shot at this.

It's a beautiful horse.

I was talking about your dad.

You think he could really do this?

I mean, it's been a long time.

Most men his age have already hung up their boots.

But with his experience and that horse,

I do think anything can happen.

Really do.

Good.

- Whoa, whoa, whoa. - You looked good out there.

For a man...

For what?

A man of a certain vintage.

Dad, are you sure about this?

You could fall, you could get thrown off.

I... I could also win.

Of course, you could take him through the course if you want.

I've still got your old saddle in the tack room.

I'm afraid it's gonna have to stay there.

- Yeah? - Yeah.

I gotta get back to work.

She could've made Nationals, you know.

Maybe even the Olympics. Yeah, I know.

Think she'll ever ride again?

That's up to her.

One more, come on. Yeah.

Let's go.

This first fence, go with him.

That goes to the back of the house. All right.

And that goes to the west side. Thank you.

And we need to make sure they...

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

Wait, wait, that goes to the kitchen.

The kitchen, please. Thanks.

Get a load of this. Your mom is amazing.

She is running this place like an army general.

The championships get a lot of attention.

Mom and Dad are definitely stepping up their game.

You know they're getting the awards banquet

catered by the Stone Hearth. What's that?

You don't know what the Stone Hearth is?

- Sorry, no. - It's like a really amazing

restaurant in the city.

It's got great food. Good atmosphere.

Huh, sounds like a perfect date spot.

See ya.

Did he just ask me out?

Oh.

- Writer's block? - Yes.

Let's go get a drink.

- Thanks, Nick. - Thank you.

Appreciate it.

Well, the real question is, what do you want to do?

Well, if I knew that I would probably be doing it.

Well, have you thought about going back to school?

Ha, why?

So I can get another degree that I'm not going to use?

Yeah, that's true.

I just feel like I'm spinning my tires, you know?

Maybe you should talk to Dad.

- Our dad? - Good point, yeah.

No, he still thinks I'm his baby.

Like he cannot understand why I would want to do anything

other than balance the books at the family business.

Boom!

Close.

Is that Matthew, the new guy?

Hmm?

I mean...

Mm-hmm.

- What is this? - Hmm?

Do you like him?

He kinda, sorta, maybe not really,

asked me out today.

I'm gonna need you to elaborate on that.

Okay, so I was talking up Stone Hearth.

And then he said that it sounds like the perfect date spot.

Like, that's what that means, right?

Sister, the boss's daughter might be a conflict of interest.

I'm working all the time.

So if I can't meet somebody in my backyard,

where am I supposed to meet 'em? No, mmmm.

Tell me.

Oh, hey, there's Luke. Mm.

Oh.

That is an interesting new development, um...

I'm sure it's nothing serious.

It's fine, it's fine.

We're not married anymore.

He is free to live his own life.

He is.

I just don't know why he has to live it in this bar.

I mean, honestly.

There are so many places to go.

Well, not within a 26-mile radius.

But like, drive, you know?

Can I have two more glasses of wine, please?

Thanks.

Hey. Hey.

Didn't think I'd see you here.

I saw you.

Oh, uh, that's Ashley.

She bought... Black Walnut, yeah, I know.

I'll take another, please.

Hey, I'm happy for you.

Ashley's really nice.

Oh no. No, no, no, no. That's not what it is.

We've been on a couple of dates.

It's... no, it's not serious.

Serious enough to put your picture on her wall.

Okay.

What about you?

Oh, I definitely took your pictures down from my wall.

Ha. Ha ha. Not what I meant.

Are you seeing anyone?

Oh, oh.

Um... here and there.

Nothing serious.

Music's good tonight.

I miss that.

What?

What do you miss? Nothing.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.

I'm not gonna let you do that.

What were you gonna say?

I miss, um, you know, us...

dancing.

Like that.

I'm sorry. I'm... I'm sorry.

I mean, I shouldn't, 'cause you're on... I just... it's...

It's weird being here with you

but not being with you.

And... and the last time I danced like that was...

Before we broke up.

I don't remember it being a "we."

Wow, um...

Sam, I just...

I just didn't know

how to help you find what you were looking for.

That's all. I, um...

Hey, it's okay. You know, we were young.

We couldn't expect to figure each other out

when we barely knew ourselves. So...

Well, talking about it kind of helps.

I thought I tried. I mean,

I just felt like you didn't want to listen.

Right.

Well, it's hard constantly feeling like

you're failing the person that you love, you know.

I never said that.

I never said you failed.

I know.

But you never really said I succeeded either.

Anyway, I should go.

And, uh, enjoy your evening.

- Oh, that's so true. - You have such a good memory.

That horse was like clockwork.

He would know exactly what time she got home from school.

He really did.

Oh, oh, we can't put the Bevels with the Warner Smiths.

They aren't speaking after that unfortunate

tree trimming incident last spring.

- Oh, forgive me. - Let's move 'em over here.

Good morning.

Are we planning a dinner party or invading New Hampshire?

A little bit of both.

Good morning.

Late night? Nope.

Your mother was just telling us about your first horse.

Oh, yeah, I still miss Midnight.

Talk about an emotional connection.

You used to ride him

without putting your feet in the stirrups.

- Mm-hmm. - I forgot about that.

I liked the freedom.

Just the two of us riding for fun.

Yeah, but her father didn't think so.

We used to hear him yelling at her from up at the house.

"Put your feet in those stirrups, young lady."

I didn't sound like that.

- Did I? - Absolutely.

It was a little dangerous,

but it wasn't the worst thing I could've done.

No. No, it wasn't.

Well, I better go wash up.

Good morning, everyone.

You all have some fun.

Good morning, indeed.

- Kinda harsh on you. - That's my dad.

Everyone says he has a hard time with emotions.

But he doesn't have trouble reminding me

of how I let him down.

- How's your article going? - Oh, it's not.

It's not at all, no.

I finally have this chance to write something

that could get attention, and I just...

I can't get started.

My editor told me to my face

that I have a wall between my head and my heart.

And if I could just break through it,

then I could deliver a cover-worthy story.

What?

You think I have a wall?

I think you're your father's daughter.

See, I don't want that.

I don't want that, I have to figure this out.

Okay, then what can I do to help?

Maybe I just need to reconnect a little bit, you know?

Just refresh my memory.

Get my hands dirty.

Or we could get your hands clean.

Oh, you like a bath, don't you, Wally?

Yeah.

Aw.

So how do you do it?

How do I do what?

You know, that horse whisperer thing you do.

Well, horses are not complicated.

You, not so much.

Come on now, really?

No, with horses, you just got to listen.

More than just with your ears.

You got to listen with your hands.

You see... here, give me this.

Now, get a feel for him.

See how his leg feels. Feel those ribs.

See how he moves when he wants to talk to you.

And then take a step back and use your eyes.

And you watch how he moves and you see what he wants

and how he goes after it.

And then... boom.

He has told you everything he needs.

So why do you think he's doing this?

- Who, Preston? - Yeah.

I mean, you said yourself,

most men his age would have quit by now.

Competitiveness runs in your family.

I mean, you should know that more than anybody else.

Because on... on a show day, when you would be getting ready,

ooh, you would get that look in your eye.

That one right there.

And watch out.

Every move, every jump, just gotta be perfect.

All right, let's rinse him.

Okay, let's rinse you.

- Where'd you go just then? - I was just thinking...

See? He's telling us what he needs.

You better... no!

No! No! Ah!

Oh, real...

All right, I give, I give, I give, I give!

All right.

We're almost there, I promise. Where are you taking me?

We're in Massachusetts now.

Don't worry about it.

- Just watch out for the cliff. - Stop.

Okay, two more steps.

One, two. One, two.

Voila.

Class is over.

This is your graduation ceremony.

You know I don't ride anymore.

No, I know you don't compete anymore.

But this...

this is just for fun.

And it's good for your soul.

And, uh, you know what the best part is?

- Hi, buddy. - You don't have to do it alone.

Hey, Rascal.

Ready? Come on, Jake.

So, what do you say?

Let's just ride.

All right.

Okay.

How's it feel?

It feels... familiar.

I'll tell you what.

Why don't we just take it easy?

Let you get used to it again. How's that sound?

Yeah, sounds good.

There she goes.

You wanna go get 'em?

Let's go.

Hey, Preston.

Preston!

You might want to come see this.

- Wow. - Look at them.

I'd hoped this would happen. Yeah.

Whew! That was fun.

Yeah.

Almost forgot how much I love this.

You know, I was sad when I hear you quit.

Must've been a tough decision for you,

and I thought about calling,

but I had just broken up with you a month before...

- Mm-hmm. - So that was out the window.

Yeah, fun times.

But I'm ready to listen now.

I was competing upstate.

Literally face down in the dirt in front of

some of the best equestrians in the country.

I get up, I get back on Midnight.

Dad calls me over.

Barks, "Your head's not in the game."

- Well, I've heard that. - Yeah.

He was right.

Our marriage had just ended, and I was heartbroken.

And I was supposed to focus on winning?

The thing is, it wasn't just him that expected perfection.

- It was everyone. - Yeah.

The business of winning had become bigger

than the love of the sport, so I quit

and put my journalism degree to work.

Sometimes we gotta step away from something

to see how much we love it. Yeah.

I think we really do.

Is it too late to say I'm sorry?

Never.

I was just a trainer,

married to the daughter of such an established family.

It was, I don't know, it was intimidating.

Noted trainer.

Not back then.

No, back then, I was just starting out.

You know, I had to work. I had no safety net.

I didn't have the support that you did.

You know, my parents did the best they could.

And I'm sorry for not telling you enough

how great you were.

- No. - Yeah, because you were.

Even then.

I guess I wasn't the only one

who had the pressure of perfection, huh?

Nope.

And then we just...

We just grew apart faster than we grew up.

We should...

I don't think this is a good idea.

No.

Definitely not.

I think we should head back.

Yeah, I think you're right.

Oh, where have you guys been?

I've been looking for you.

Uh, why? What's going on?

Dad's hurt.

- Hurt? - Come on.

I was just getting Rascal some hay

and I didn't expect all the extra bales

to come tumbling down on me.

So just keep icing it.

Keep it elevated. Got it.

Thank you, Doc. You're welcome.

It's great to see everybody.

Good to see you. Thank you for coming.

This should go on the inside.

The doctor said the outside.

Thank you so much, we really appreciate it.

I mean, when my dad sets his mind to something,

there's nothing stopping him.

Well, it's just a sprain. Your dad's a tough guy.

- Yeah. - He just needs some rest.

Do you still think he'll be able to compete

in the championships next week?

He conveniently neglected to mention that small detail.

Uh-huh.

It's probably because he knows you'll tell him, "No."

I've learned through the years

that your dad's gonna do what your dad's gonna do.

But he needs to stay off the horse.

The thing is, Sam, your mom and dad are getting older.

Even with your sister here,

this farm's a pretty big responsibility.

It's good to see you, Sam.

Yeah, it's good to see you too.

- Call me if you need anything. - Thank you so much, Doctor.

Dad, where you going?

Work out Rascal. I got a schedule.

Well, don't you think you need to rest?

We got a competition coming up, in case you haven't heard.

Doctor D said you need to rest.

Well, Doctor D is entitled to his opinion.

Why are you doing this?

- Doing what? - This.

The... the competition.

You have a room full of trophies.

Do you really need another one?

I haven't won recently and

putting our family name on a blue ribbon

would bring some real value to this farm.

Value?

Wait...

Are you thinking about selling this place?

I wasn't gonna tell you or Alex

until after we decided but...

yes.

Your mother and I have talked about it.

We're gonna sell Meadowbrook.

I'm sorry.

Come on.

Stay up. No, stop worrying about it.

Let your hands be easy. I can't get my balance.

Okay, then listen to what I'm telling you.

It's just not gonna work.

I'm leading with the wrong hand, my balance is off.

No, you're thinking about it too much.

Focus, stay centered.

Okay, maybe your arm will be ready by showtime.

"Maybe" is not gonna get us a win.

If I want the best price for this place,

the Barclay name has gotta end up in first place.

I know. Okay.

What about you, Luke?

Do you think you could do it?

No, no, no. Listen, Preston,

you know I would do anything for Meadowbrook

but I am a trainer. I am not a rider.

I am.

Samantha, you don't have to do this.

Dad, you've been trying to get me

back on a horse for three years.

- Well, yeah, yeah, but I... - I'm not gonna stand by

and watch you get hurt any more than you already are.

I do not know where you get this stubborn streak from.

- Okay, listen. - Yep.

- First time around the course. - Mm-hmm?

- Take it easy. - Mm-hmm.

Let Rascal get to know you, okay?

Okay. Don't worry about us.

Rascal and I are becoming good buddies, aren't we?

All right, ready?

Hey, let's go.

I'm serious, don't do anything crazy

and do not try any jumps.

I can't hear you.

She's not gonna listen, is she?

You're the one who married her.

What do you think?

Yeah, she's gonna jump.

Yeah, buddy.

There you go, Sam.

Nice and easy.

Easy, easy.

That's it, Rascal, show her the way.

She's riding again?

Yes, yes, she is.

What do you say, Rascal?

Let's do this.

Okay, what are you doing, Sam?

She's not going to do that jump, is she?

- Sam, do not do it. - Never does what she's told.

Don't do it, Sam. Don't do it, Sam.

Sam!

Sam!

Whoa, whoa, whoa, hey, hey, hey.

I got you. Hey, you okay?

I got you. Thank you.

Honey? Honey, are you okay?

Yes, I'm fine. I'm fine, Mom.

This is why I told you not to attempt that.

You are out of practice. Apparently.

Sam, really? What were you thinking?

I was thinking that I have less than a week

to get ready for the championships, Dad.

And I can't do this without you.

What do you say?

Wanna train me?

Well, that depends.

Are you gonna listen to me?

I'm sorry, come again?

Did you say you're competing in the event?

I did.

But I thought you gave up riding.

I did.

I guess sometimes you have to step away

from something to realize how much you love it.

And now you think you found it again?

I think maybe I have.

Well, I did tell you to put yourself into the article.

And now you are actually riding the horse.

Wow, you really know how to take a note.

All right, keep working at it.

Send me updates.

Will do, thank you.

I don't need thank you's. Just write me a good article.

Oh, and make sure to get great photos.

Okay.

We're going back to basics now, okay?

Yeah.

Heels down.

Keep straight. Mmhmm.

And listen, you can take it...

a little bit more.

Not too much.

He'll feel you.

Just trust him.

They say once you fall off a horse,

you have to get right back on.

Let me assure you,

this is not as easy as it sounds.

You gotta get out of your head.

You got to start to feel this is a partnership.

The Northeastern Championships are one of the most elite

and anticipated horse events in the country,

and they're happening in my backyard.

And now, it's up to me to win it,

with my grumbling father,

my ex-husband-turned- personal-horse-trainer,

and a horse that lives up to his name, Rascal,

all by my side.

Do it again.

Now, being trained by your ex-husband

is... complicated.

It takes a whole lot of courage

and an incredible amount of patience and trust.

You have to be clean if you want to qualify.

Little more, about six inches.

My mother and sister have designed and delivered

a beautiful event.

Now it's up to me to win it.

The thing is, no one can do this for me.

You can have the best trainer in the state,

the most athletic of horses,

and a sideline of loved ones cheering you on.

That was nice.

But at the end of the day,

it's up to me to make that jump.

So how do you actually get back on a horse?

You just do.

- Hi. - Hi.

Hi.

Um, your mom ordered these.

I told her I would drop them off.

Oh, thank you.

Thank you. Can I give them to you?

Ah, Sam, about the other night...

Don't worry about it.

Oh, well, I have been. All week.

I should have at least said hi or something.

It was just so awkward.

- But honestly, it's okay. - Okay.

Well, the truth is, um,

I have been on a few dates with Luke.

But it hasn't really worked out.

He mostly just talks about you, really.

I, um, I'm so sorry about that, I...

Don't be.

Everybody knows that Travers

is still in love with you.

Everybody except you, apparently.

Okay, I should get back to the bakery.

It's a... it's a one-woman band over there.

Enjoy. Say hi to your mom.

Hey, Ashley, do you remember the article

I told you I was writing for the magazine?

Oh, yeah, of course.

I would love to talk to you about your photographs.

The banquet tent is up.

I just don't know if the centerpieces are big enough.

I'm sure they'll be fine.

- Are you okay? - Yeah, I've been thinking.

Samantha is doing such a good job out there.

It's like she never quit.

I'm just so proud of her.

Have you told her that?

Ah, she doesn't want to hear it from me.

That is where you are wrong.

You're exactly the one she needs to hear it from.

Hm.

She's doing all of this for you.

You old bear.

The least you can do

is tell her that you appreciate it.

She knows that.

Why does everybody have to talk about everything?

Don't make the same mistake again.

Let your daughter know how you feel.

How?

That's up to you.

Old bear.

You're still out here, huh?

Almost finished.

It's a lot of paperwork.

Alex.

Alexandra.

- Yes? - I wanted to tell you that

your being here,

your taking care of all this stuff, it...

It means a lot.

It means a lot to me.

Well, thanks, Dad.

I have to get inside and help your mother.

- Mm-hmm. - Night.

That was such a great shot.

Are you getting some fun things?

I'm getting everything.

I'm having the time of my life.

Thank you for having me here.

It really means a lot to me. Me too.

I'm so happy you're here.

I'm so happy too.

Go, I'll get pictures of everything.

Have fun. Thanks.

Hey.

Why won't he just ask me out?

If you like him so much, why don't you just ask him out?

Well, I don't know if I like him enough

for me to ask him out.

Well, sister, I don't know what to tell you, okay?

Are you either in or... Those are supposed to be

amuse bouche... hang on.

Amanda.

- Well, hello. - Hello!

What are you doing here? You look amazing.

Thank you, so do you.

Well, when I read your email updates,

I couldn't resist.

So I commandeered the company car

and here I am. I live for this.

If you capture even half of this event in your article,

it will make me look very good.

And I really like to look good.

Yeah, well, I just want to deliver a great article for you.

- You got this. - Thank you.

Vigo, Amanda Carter, "Compass" magazine.

Hey.

Wow. Look at you.

You spent pretty much our entire marriage

trying to get me to dress up, so I figured today

I would dress up for you.

Well, you look very dapper.

Yeah!

- Feels good, feels right. - Yeah.

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Northeastern Championships.

This is our first year to host this event,

and we are thrilled that you are here.

First, I have to say that none of this

would have been possible without my wife

and my extraordinary daughter, Alexandra.

Whoo! Yeah!

Now, as many of you know, or you can see here,

I'm not able to compete in tomorrow's event.

So Meadowbrook Stables is going to be represented

by somebody I care about and also love dearly,

our eldest daughter, Samantha.

As many of you know,

Sam left the horse world several years ago

to pursue other interests.

So we're... we're very glad that she stepped in

and we're happy to have her home.

Well, please, eat, drink and have a wonderful time.

Enjoy yourselves.

Today is all about pleasure.

Tomorrow is about winning.

Excuse me.

Five, six.

How you feeling?

I never thought I would be back here.

But you're pretty lucky.

'Cause not everybody gets a second chance.

That's true.

Are you still in love with me?

Yes. Are you still in love with me?

It was never a question of love, Luke.

It... it wasn't, it was a question of everything else

but never love.

- There she is. - What's so funny?

Nothing, nothing. I just know you too well.

- Oh, you do, huh? - Yeah. I do.

Like what's going on inside that head of yours right now

is... is... is you are writing a novel

about all of the things that could possibly go wrong here.

You... you have spreadsheets and... and checklists

of every disaster that could possibly happen here.

"Are we together? Are we not?

Should we do this? Should we stop while we're ahead?"

- Yes! - And I just... I just...

I don't want to repeat history either, I really don't, but I...

I just want you to stop thinking for a second.

Because right now,

the only thing I can think about

is how much I want to kiss you.

Good afternoon and welcome

to the Northeastern Equestrian Championships.

The best riders in the country are here in Meadowbrook Farms

to compete for the blue ribbon.

The competition is unbelievably stiff this year.

All the competitors here are good enough to win

but it will take a special rider

to get a clean run on this course.

The excitement of completion day can be felt throughout the crowd

as our riders get ready for their first round.

This is Meadowbrook's first year hosting the event,

but the Barclay name is no stranger

to the show jumping world.

Good job.

Please take your seats as we welcome the judges

and the competitors.

Our reigning champ, Charlotte Anderson,

riding Hunter is really the one to watch here.

Samantha Barclay riding Rascal

is stepping in for her father after an injury.

Samantha is a well-known championship rider,

known for her consistency and composure.

Each rider will have 55 seconds to complete the first round

and only the top scorers will be able to continue

to round two for a chance at the ribbon.

Another beautiful jump from Charlotte,

who seems to be on her game today.

Oh, I spoke too soon.

That's her first bad jump.

She follows up that mistake with a good recovery jump.

Two more perfect jumps

as she finishes her first round with only one fault.

A fan favorite, Rusty, starts out with a strong run.

He is an incredibly strong and fast horse.

Rusty lands badly.

That'll cost him some points.

He does have trouble with his turns,

sometimes not giving himself enough space for the lead-up.

And oh, a run-out for Rusty.

Unfortunately, it looks like

that will disqualify him for round two.

Our next rider, Samantha Barclay

from our host stables here at Meadowbrook.

She's riding Rascal.

In order to continue to the next round,

Samantha and Rascal will need to have under four faults.

Oh, and there they go.

Beautiful first jump. Oh!

One vertical down,

which is okay, as long as she doesn't get in her head.

Lovely turn and another clean jump for Rascal.

Not a great run for Samantha and Rascal

but it looks like it'll be good enough

to make it to round two.

But she certainly will have her work cut out for her.

It's just one fault.

She can make it up in the next round.

- Absolutely, she's fine. - Right.

Whoa, whoa.

Buddy, it's not you, okay?

It's me, it's me.

All right, let's go.

Come on.

All right, we're gonna take a short break,

and we'll be back with our final event of the day.

Thanks, Matthew.

Sam.

Samantha.

Dad, I am so sorry. I...

I want to win this for you. I... I just...

I feel like I'm letting you down.

I think for someone who's been away for so long,

you're doing just fine out there.

I know you want me to be this great equestrian,

and I feel like I'm just writing stories about it in a magazine.

Come with me.

Come on.

I want to show you something.

Dad, when did you start smoking?

I don't smoke.

Just open it.

It's my... my articles.

Yeah, I got stories in there

from your student newspaper,

that magazine you used to write for locally,

even got the first...

First one you got published when you moved to New York.

This is everything I've ever written.

You even have my paragraph on personalized dinnerware.

There's one about macrame in there too.

Which, do not tell your mother, I enjoyed.

I can't believe you saved all of this.

You wrote it, I read it.

Why didn't you ever say anything? I...

All these years, I just...

I thought you were disappointed in me.

Disappointed?

Sam, I could never be disappointed in you.

Sad, maybe, but not...

Not because you gave up the sport.

Because maybe I felt like that you gave me up.

All those years of training,

driving across the country to competitions,

they're the best years of my life.

Do I like to win? Yeah, of course.

But spending all that time with you

is what I cared about most.

Dad those were...

Those were some of the best years of my life too.

I just needed time to... To find my way,

but... you were never gonna lose me.

Ever.

I know I don't say this enough, Sam.

At... at... at all, really.

I'm so proud of you.

I always have been, always will be.

You're following your heart

and you're doing what makes you happy.

That's all a parent could ever ask for.

I love you.

I love you so much.

All right. Now, it's time.

I'm afraid I'm not doing a very good job for Meadowbrook.

I want you to forget about the competition.

I want you to forget about winning.

- I... I'm sorry, what? - That... that's right.

I want you to forget everything I ever told you about winning.

I want you to remember why you loved the sport

in the first place.

I want you to get out there, I want you to ride Rascal,

and to have some fun.

Ann

for Charlotte and Hunter.

With only a one-fault total,

it will keep her in first place.

Yep, up. All right.

Here we go.

Thanks, Matthew. All right.

Let's just have some fun, buddy, okay?

Okay.

And our final competitor for the event,

Samantha Barclay and Rascal.

They had some trouble in the first round,

so they will need a completely clean ride to land in first.

Whoa, off to a strong start.

Great pace.

Beautiful leaps.

Whoa!

She needs to stay in it as she approaches

the trouble jump.

The turn looks tight.

Perfect speed.

And clear. Yes.

- Whoo! - She did it!

Wow, what a run for Samantha and Rascal.

And that is what we call a winning ride.

She's a star.

Whoo!

- Congratulations. - Oh, thank you.

Good job, buddy. Good job.

- Okay, everyone, big smiles. - All righty.

Eyes up here. Everyone say, "Rascal."

Rascal.

I just love the look on Sam's face here.

So determined. These are exquisite.

You have real talent.

Oh, I don't know about all that.

I'm just taking pictures. I would. It's my job.

Editor-in-chief, Amanda Carter. "Compass" magazine.

Wow.

- We need to talk. - We do?

Okay.

Oh, hey. Hey, um,

there's someone I'd really like you to meet.

- Who? - This is Jared.

My boyfriend.

Boyfriend.

It's nice to meet you, Jared.

- Nice to meet you too. - Jared, this is Alex.

Alex runs the books around here.

Actually, she runs everything around here.

She does an incredible job at it all.

Thank you for saying so.

Oh, I love this song.

Come on, let's go dance.

Bye. Bye.

- Mmm, this is good. - Yeah?

- Have you tried it? - No.

But I picked most of it out.

Oh, then you've got great taste.

Thanks.

- I'm Scott. - I'm Alexandra.

Do you want to dance?

- You know what? - Thank you, thank you.

It was all her, it was all her.

- Good training, good job. - Thank you so much.

Well, that's gotta feel good.

I didn't do it for the win.

But yeah, it feels kinda good. Yeah.

I did it to make

my parents happy. And that you did.

You knocked it out of the park.

You were terrific, sweetie.

Terrific. Thank you.

Your mother and I would like to run something by you.

We've spoken to Alex, and she's on board.

We have decided not to sell.

Oh, Dad, I am...

I'm really relieved.

I know how much work this place is to keep up with,

but I just... I couldn't bear letting it go.

I still want to step back from the business a bit.

Well, we're taking a vacation actually.

We need a little bit of much needed us time.

That's fantastic. Where are you going?

- France. - Mexico.

Who's gonna watch the stables?

Your dad has promoted your sister to general manager.

Alex! Come here.

Congratulations. Thank you.

- If this is what you want? - It is, it is.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized

how much I love this place.

And I'm gonna get a raise. And a new car.

- Huh? - Mm-hmm.

It's a win-win.

Now if you'll excuse me,

I have to go see a man about a dance.

Obviously, Alex can't run the place alone.

It's a two-person job.

So we need somebody who knows the horses and how we work.

Dad, I...

This has been so much fun, and I'm so grateful

that you got me back on a horse but I love my job.

Not you.

We can work out the details later,

But we would like to offer you the job permanently.

Wow. First of all, thank you.

I mean, that means the world to me. It does.

I... I just don't think I could take that position

without Sam's blessing.

I can't think of anyone better for this job.

Okay.

Well, I am honored, and I promise you

I will take good care of the place.

Oh, you better take care

of more than just this place. Dad!

- Just covering my bases. - Okay, honey,

why don't we go dance? Oh, now?

Yeah, mm-hmm.

Come on, you old bear.

Wow!

- Okay, well... - Look at you.

How about you?

Are you gonna ask me to dance?

Luke Travers,

would you like to dance?

I thought you would never ask.

Come on.

You pleased with yourself?

Sometimes people just need a nudge in the right direction.

Do you think she knows?

Well, knowing our daughter,

yes.

Do you think she cares?

I think she's happy.

And that's all that matters. That's true.

France. Mexico.

You don't think they were trying

to get us back together, do you?

Would it be that bad?

Good thing you kept Winston.

It's out!

Already got mine.

But I want you to sign it for me, okay?

Wait, I don't have a pen.

I don't have a pen!

And you call yourself a writer?

Okay.

There you go.

Thank you.

Thanks, babe.

Of course.

- All in? - All in.

Where to, folks?

Let's just ride.

Walk on.

There we go.

And for those readers out there

wondering how this story ends,

well, I'm afraid I don't really know.

But I will tell you one thing.

I believe in second chances.