Before training continued the next morning, Jamie and I were talking in the stable.

Gillian: “One doubts herself. One pushes too hard. And today we’ll see the third.”

Jamie: “The most difficult one. Because with him, you never know if he’s protecting himself — or just avoiding things.”

From the very beginning of the session, Noah made his position clear.

Noah: “I don’t ride predetermined lines. If my horse feels differently, I go with him.”

Jamie: “Or you hide behind that when things get uncomfortable.”

He rode the course flawlessly.

Noah: “He was calm. That’s all I need.”

Jamie: “He was calm because you didn’t ask anything of him.”

Later, at the stable—

Noah: “I don’t want to force him.”

Jamie: “Leading isn’t forcing. Sometimes it’s protection.”

All three candidates had finished their sessions. Jamie shared his evaluation with Mr. Riverton while Chiara, Leon, and Noah waited outside.

Chiara: “Maybe talent just isn’t enough.”

Leon: “It is — if you use it correctly.”

Noah: “…or if you’re willing to let yourself change.”

Then it was time. Mr. Riverton stepped forward.

Mr. Riverton: “I’m not looking for a perfect rider. I’m looking for someone willing to grow — even when it’s uncomfortable. My decision is made. Chiara will join the junior squad of Jarla Equestrian.”

Leon turned away and mounted his horse. Jamie followed him.

Leon: “I was better.”

Jamie: “You were stronger. But strength without patience burns out. When you learn to listen, no one will be able to stop you.”

Noah also prepared to leave.

Noah: “Maybe I just don’t fit into a squad like this.”

Jamie: “You do. But not as long as you hide behind your freedom. Courage also means taking responsibility.”

Chiara could hardly believe it.

Chiara: “I hope I’m ready.”

Mr. Riverton: “Readiness doesn’t come before the challenge — it grows because of it.”

Jamie: “You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to stay real.”

Mr. Riverton was satisfied. Chiara was overjoyed. And Jamie was simply relieved it was over. I was so proud of him. Yes, he had to give Mr. Riverton an objective evaluation. But he had still managed to ensure that no one walked away feeling like a loser. He saw the potential in all three of them. Maybe it still needed shaping in different ways — but nothing about them stood in the way of a great future. And in that moment, my admiration for the man beside me grew quietly, but unmistakably.