On the evening before my 25th birthday, we stayed at the stable for a long time.

Jamie: “Do you realize you’ll be turning a year older in exactly 37 minutes? I’d love to go for a ride with you — right into your birthday. Look, I even had a birthday wreath made for you by the horse stylist.”

Gillian: “Now? It’s already dark. I’ve never ridden into my birthday before… that actually sounds kind of fun. Let’s go.”

I wasn’t supposed to saddle a horse. Epico was already standing there, fully tacked up. Jamie said we’d only need one horse.

Gillian: “And why exactly are we both riding on one horse?”

Jamie: “Simple — so my back doesn’t get cold. It is a bit chilly at night. No, just kidding… I just like it when you cuddle up to me like that.”

We didn’t ride for long. In the small grove behind the fire pit, Jamie stopped. On a large stone, there was already a bottle of champagne and glasses.

Gillian: “You planned all of this! What a beautiful and romantic surprise.”

Jamie: “Your birthday is something very special — and that calls for surprises. Especially since you’re officially a quarter of a century old.”

I heard a noise behind us and turned around.

Gillian: “Oh my God! There’s a horse coming!”

Jamie: “Ha ha… maybe it wants to wish you a happy birthday.”

A note was attached to the saddle of the horse. I read: Gillian, our love is epic to me, and from the moment I first saw you, you’ve drawn me in like magic. Magica is a symbol of my deep love for you. Jamie

P.S.: Greetings from Epico. He is always happy to offer his services as a stud

I couldn’t believe it.

Gillian: “Jamie… you’re giving me a horse?! That’s way too much!”

Jamie: “If I could, I’d give you the whole world. Happy Birthday, Gillian. I love you.”

Suddenly, Claire and Rowan appeared from behind the big stone. Claire & Rowan: “Surprise! Happy Birthday, Gillian!”

Jamie: “Happy birthday, my love!”

Gillian: “Claire… Rowan! What an amazing surprise! And just imagine — I got a horse!”

We celebrated my new year of life with champagne and moonlight. It got very late. Jamie and I rode back home together.

Gillian: “Now I finally understand why we had to ride out on one horse.”

Jamie: “I had a plan — and a cold back. Now I only have a cold back. By the way… can you knit?”

Back at the stable, I wanted to thank Jamie again. The two horses stood side by side in the aisle. They looked incredible.

Gillian: “That was truly an insane surprise. Thank you so much, Jamie. I’m beyond happy. Let’s go to sleep now. Oh… and Epico — hooves off my girl!!!”