Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 7
New horse and partner.
Condo 12 B, Joe’s Place. 6:00 am, 3 weeks later

The sound of the door buzzer drew Josie’s attention. “Whoever this is better be dead or fucking dying.” Josie snarled as she walked over the door and hit the call button. “Yes.”

“It’s me Kelly, Josie. Let me in. I need to talk to you.” Kelly Ramsy called back surprising Josie.

“Okay just a minute.” Josie answered and hit the door release button. After holding the button for account of twelve she released it and headed back to her kitchen counter after unlocking her door. Knowing Kelly would be wanting a cup of coffee Josie headed for the pot. After fixing Kelly’s coffee she set it on the counter and returned to dressing for work. At the knock on her door Josie called. “Come on in the door is open.”

“Morning Josie. Is the coffee on?” Kelly asked as she entered the condo.

“Fixed and waiting for you on the counter, Kelly.” Josie called out from her bedroom as she pulled a turtleneck thermal shirt over her head. “What’s so all fire important that you need to raid my place at oh dark stupid girlfriend?”

“Transfer orders is what’s so all fired important. Did you have to tell your Captain that I know how to ride a damned horse?” Kelly told her as Josie walked out of her bedroom.

“What the Sam Hill are you talking about Kelly? I didn’t even know you knew how to ride.” Josie bitched back as she slipped her feet into her paddock boots.

“If you didn’t tell your Captain about me then who did?” Kelly bitched.

“Damned if I know. Is it anywhere in your records?” Josie asked as she sat down next to Kelly.

“No. It’s something I do on my days off.” Kelly answered honestly.

“Do you use the city stables or the police stable for your horse?” Josie asked her.

“I rent one of the stalls down at the city stables. Why?” Kelly asked as drank her coffee.

“That’s how Captain Mathews found out. He boards his and his wife’s horses at the city stables. He’s been asking the stable hands if there are any officers that use the rental horses every day since we got the grant.” Josie told her honestly.

“Damn it you could have warned me, girlfriend. I liked my old unit. I had the best boot working for me. Now I got to start all over again.” Kelly moaned.

“Don't blame me.” Josie said frankly to her friend. “Ever since we received that grant and a generous donation for horses and their care, the Captain has been trying to recruit every officer who knows how to ride. We’re still short three officers out of our allotted forty, but now we’ve got funding for up to eighty officers. If the Captain doesn’t use this budget, the horse patrol will lose it. In fact, I’m supposed to spend part of it with Sergeant Grady by picking up three new police trucks and three eight-horse trailers.”

Kelly shook her head, trying to wrap her mind around the sudden changes. “Guess I better brush up on all those patrol protocols again.” Kelly muttered, glancing at the coffee in her hands as if it could offer some reassurance.

Josie managed a small smile. “At least you know the horses already. Most of these rookies get nervous just putting on a helmet.” They both shared a brief laugh, the tension easing just a little. “It could have been worse. You could have been sent to one of the cycle patrol units.”

“Thank god for small mercies.” Kelly chuckled then asked. “What’s this about a donation and having to use it or lose it?”

“A few days after Captain Mathews secured approval for a federal grant totaling two million dollars, a lawyer representing a horse breeder and trainer from Western Maryland arrived with news of an additional private donation. This donation amounted to five million dollars, but it came with a condition: the funds could only be used for the mounted division.” Josie told her before taking a sip of her coffee and continuing.

“Meanwhile, the officials at city hall have their own ideas about how to allocate the federal grant money. They want to use the funds to replace aging cruisers, motorcycles, bicycles, and even purchase new boats for the harbor patrol units. However, Captain Mathews worked hard to acquire that grant specifically for the horse unit. Because the grant is federal, the city is required to allocate enough money to bring the mounted division up to full strength first. Any remaining funds can then be spent at the city's discretion.” Josie slowly explained for Kelly.

Kelly took a deep breath, rolling her shoulders as if to shake off the unwelcome weight of new responsibilities. “Well, change is the only constant, right?” she said, trying to muster enthusiasm she didn’t quite feel. Josie nodded in agreement, her expression softening.

“Yeah, and at least this time, I’m riding into change with a good horse under me and a decent partner at my side.” Kelly managed a grateful smile, the two friends lingering for a moment in comfortable silence before the city outside beckoned them back to duty. “You said you have to pick up three new rigs with trailers. Who’s driving the third rig?”

“Lieutenant Sarah Albertson for the second shift.” Josie answered quickly.

“What do you know about her?” Kelly asked politely.

“Not much really. I’ve only met her a few times, but it seems like she has her act together. She was trained by Captain Mathews’ predecessor, she came over from Major Crimes after she was promoted to LT, and everyone says she is one hell of a rider. From what I hear she doesn’t put up with bullshit from her officers. She’s a real by the books officer. Why are you asking?” Josie asked Kelly with a frown.

Kelly hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “Just want to know who I’m riding with. The last time I got paired up with someone brand new, it took weeks before we were on the same page. If she’s solid and knows her stuff, that’s good for all of us.”

Josie nodded, understanding the concern. “Sarah’s not the type to let anyone slack off, so I think you’ll find things run pretty smooth.”

Kelly seemed reassured, nodding quietly as she finished her coffee. With the city waking up outside and the department shifting gears for the start of another busy day, Josie glanced at her watch and motioned toward the door.

“Come on,” she urged, her voice steady but encouraging, “let’s get this day started. With new faces, new rigs, and plenty of changes, it’s up to us to keep things moving.”

Kelly followed, her earlier worries easing into a sense of determination, ready to meet whatever came next as the two officers stepped out of the condo, heading toward the elevator. Once outside they split up each headed for their own car. As she drove to the station Josie knew the Kelly would fit in with the second shift just fine. As it was, Josie knew that her day was going to be filled with a lot of driving.

Downtown District Station House. 7:30 am rollcall.

“Okay people settle and take your seats.” Sergeant Gardy called as he entered the squad room. once everyone had found a seat he got down to business. “Alright people listen up. Today we get to play my favorite game. Pin the tail on the dumbass.”

“What does that mean?” Josie whispered to Sally a little louder then she expected.

“What that means Officer Cartwright is we get to pick up where the third shift left off. We have nine open cases to deal with. Now for those of you who haven’t play pin the tail on the dumbass before this is how the game is played. We have nine suspects still at large that need to be brought in for questioning. Now thanks to budget cuts third shift had to clock out before they could clean up their board. Those dumbasses are now our responsibility.” Sergeant Grady told her then turned his attention the rest of the patrol. “Everyone will be receiving copies of the BOLOs. I want those smucks rounded up and off my board by end of shift people. Am I clear?”

“Loud and clear, Sergeant.” TJ Shear called out for everyone.

“Good everyone can report to your patrol routes except for the mounted patrol. Stay safe out there and watch each other’s backs. Mounted patrol Listen up people for your assignments. Shear, Mitchel, you got Druid Hill. Locklear, Norton you have Television hill today. O’reily and Young are covering Gwynn Falls-Leakin Park with McGregor and Salone be sure to check the back trails for one of our BOLO suspects. Storm, Fitzhue, you got Oceanside and Riverwalk along with Stow and Manning. If the pros are working try to get them to move elsewhere. Rider as this is your first day on patrol with us you’ll be with the Skipper in Herring Run Park. Keys you and Lee can play backup for them. Thomson, Hill, you’ve got Locas Point. Make sure those RVs are out of Fort McHenry visitors parking lot. Martain, Hope you’ve got downtown with McFeeters and Snow. Cartwright you’re with me. That’s all people. Be safe and watch your backs out there.” Gardy said after giving out the assignments.

Josie noticed that the new riders were already trying to get their bearings, exchanging quick glances and shuffling through the stack of BOLOs that had been handed out. Josie gave them a reassuring nod as she gathered her own paperwork, feeling the familiar buzz of anticipation before a long day on the streets. The chatter in the room faded as officers filed out in pairs or alone, boots echoing down the hallways, each one ready to track down their assigned suspects.

Josie squared her shoulders, ready to tackle the unpredictable day ahead with Sergeant Gardy, knowing that with teamwork and determination, they'd have a shot at clearing that board before sundown. Not that she and Gardy would be making any arrests. They had their own mission. As they exited the station they were met by Lieutenant Sarah Albertson.

“Morning Sergeant Gardy, Officer Cartwright.” The Lieutenant greeted them.

“Morning Lieutenant.” They both said answered them.

“Ready to pick up our newest rigs?” Albertson asked them with a smile.

“Yes ma’am. Our we picking them up from the Central motorpol or from the dealership?” Gardy asked with his own smile.

“City motorpol. From there we have to head over to Frederick for the trailers. Then from here were heading over to Hagerstown, Cumberland, and finally Accident.” Albertson told them.

“What are we picking up in Hagerstown, Cumberland, and Accident ma’am?” Josie asked.

“Twenty four new horses. The Captain was able to pick them up at the local four H auctions. They're all certified for patrol work and have solid temperaments, so they'll fit right in with our current herd. The Captain wanted to make sure we had the best possible stock for the upcoming season, and these horses meet all the department's standards. We'll be running basic assessments once we get them settled in, but initial reports from the auctions are promising.” Albertson told her as she looked down at her clipboard.

“That’s a lot of driving ma’am. Can I make a suggestion. Once we’ve picked up the trailers we each take a separate pickup for the horses. That way you can make the pickup in Hagerstown and head back here.” Josie suggested to the Lieutenant.

“I’d love to do that, Cartwright, but I have to sign for each horse.” Albertson told her.

“Damn that sucks ass. Is there any way we could get a fourth driver. So we can send the trucks from Hagerstown and Cumberland back while the last ruck heads for Accident?” Josie asked her.

Albertson considered Josie’s question, tapping her pen thoughtfully against her clipboard. “I’ll see if dispatch can spare someone, but with the parade detail this weekend, we’re running lean on available drivers. If they can free up a reserve officer, we might be able to pull it off. Otherwise, we’ll just have to stick together and make it work.”

With a plan in place Josie and Gardy headed over to the city motorpol. When they arrived they were greeted by the motorpol supervisor. The man smiled like a proud papa as he showed the three brand new F-350 pickups. The big diesel trucks were outfitted with gooseneck trailer hitches in their beds. Gardy took one look at the gooseneck hitches and grunted.

“I am not very familiar with these hitches, Cartwright. I have never operated a trailer equipped with a gooseneck.” Gardy admitted candidly before inquiring. “Are they difficult to drive?”

“Not really Sergeant. In many ways the gooseneck makes it easier to maneuver at tailer. I know that my aunt using a gooseneck setup for all of her horse trailers.” Josie told him as she checked not only the ball but the electrical hookups. She spent the next fifteen minutes going over all three trucks. “The trucks are good to go Sergeant.”

“Now we just need the LT, and we can get rolling.” Gardy told her as he checked his phone. “She should be here in ten minutes. She was able to get Rockford to drive her rig.”

“Who’s she riding with?” Josie asked as she closed the hood on her truck.

“Seeing as you know Western Maryland better than me. She’ll ride with you.” Gardy told her.

“Cool. Do we have a break down on the horses that we’re getting?” Josie asked him.

“The Skipper was able to get ahold of seven Walkers, two Percherons, two Clydesdales, three American Saddlebreds, three Morgans, four Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds. All of them are three and half to four year olds.” Gardy told her.

“That’s a lot of horses to train for patrol duty.” Josie pointed out.

“That’s the good thing about the horses we’re picking up today. They’ve already gone through desensitization, basic obedience training, crowd control and patrol training, and obstacle course training. We just need to pair them up with their partners.” Gardy told her.

“Regarding the new recruits, Sergeant, do we have enough officers available to manage training for such a large number?” Josie asked him with real worry.

“I’ll be honest with you Cartwright. We barely have enough to get the job done. As it is you’ll be the only officer that won’t have a trainee. Before you say you can handle the job Cartwright don’t bother. Both the Skipper and I know you can but department regs say you have to have three years on the job before you can act as a TO or be a P-three with two years. You’re barely a patrolman second class.” Sergeant Grady told her bluntly.

“Well there might be a way I can help cut down on the training time Sergeant.” Josie told him.

“How?” Was all Gardy asked.

“I am qualified to train new riders, as I previously assisted my aunt in preparing her Four-H students for Dressage during my youth. I am confident that I can apply the same instructional methods when working with new trainees.” Josie told him with a smile.

“I’ll run it by the Skipper when we get back.” Gardy told her as Lieutenant Albertson walked into the motorpol with another officer. Josie smiled as she recognized the equipment and weapons Sergeant. “Thanks for pitching in Rockford.”

“No biggie Gardy. It gets me out of the cage for the day. Besides this is something that you don’t let a rookie do.” Rockford said with a chuckle.

“Okay people let’s get mounted and rolling. We’re already thirty minutes behind.” The LT told the other three officers as she climbed into the cab of Josie’s truck. A little over twenty minutes later the three trucks were pulling on to I-70 West heading for Hagerstown. As the three trucks worked their way through the morning traffic Albertson asked Josie about herself. “I heard through the grape vine that you’ve been Eventing since you were twelve years old. Did you ever want to try out for the Olympics?”

“I would have loved to ma’am, but I would have had to go through one of the college programs for that and I was never good enough to earn a scholarship.” Josie told her honestly.

“I understand that you are part of the Cartwright family. Did you ever want to be something other than a police officer?” Albertson began, only to be interrupted by Josie.

“Before you proceed, Lieutenant, what do you know about my transition? Can you describe the circumstances surrounding it?” Josie asked pointedly.

“I possess considerably more information than most others, including the Skipper, Cartwright. My understanding is that your transition was due to a technological malfunction regarding a disguise.” Albertson responded candidly.

“Lieutenant, I require clarification on how you discovered this.” Josie demanded.

“It is common knowledge among officers of Lieutenant rank and above, Josie. The fact that you declined medical retirement is particularly notable. Additionally, I suspect you are the anonymous donor who has contributed five million dollars for new horses and equipment. Is my assumption correct?” Albertson inquired.

Josie hesitated for a moment, her expression unreadable. After a brief pause, she nodded. “Yes, Lieutenant, that’s correct. I preferred to keep it anonymous because the unit’s needs matter more than recognition. The well-being and effectiveness of the team have always been my priority.”

“Okay I’ll keep your secret. Though I do have to ask because I’m a vet myself. Were you really part of the raid that took down Iyaad al-Rafiq in Gogra in Ghazni?” Albertson asked politely.

“Yes ma’am. I was the second man through the door.” Josie answered grimly as she thought about the raid that brought down one of the Taliban’s most radical members.

“I heard that raid was a total shit show.” Albertson said kindly.

“That’s putting it mildly. We went in expecting no more than a hand full of fighters. What we got was a company sized unit of diehard terrorists and a backroom full of kids being held hostage. My platoon rolled into Gogra in standard convoy formation. I was in the second HUMVEE to the town. We had just finished clearing the outer streets when all hell broke loose. We were taking fire from the roof tops. The whole village was a fucking kill box. If it hadn’t been for a flight of Uglies I doubt we would have survived.” Josie told her honestly.

“You were what nineteen at time.” Albertson said as they passed the exit for I-695.

“I was eighteen and fresh out of AIT. I went from Leonard Wood to the four-thirty-nineth and Afghanistan. What about you ma’am? How did you heard about the al-Rafiq raid?” Josie asked her with real concern.

“I’m a Reservist was halfway through a three month rotation with the third of eighteen MI in Kabul when the raid went down.” Albertson told her then asked. “Other than family tradition. Why did you become a cop?”

“Believe it or not. It’s all I ever wanted to be. Sure I could have gone to school for anything under the sun, but I just couldn’t see myself as some white collar worker. As it is those two weeks of desk duty drove me nuts.” Josie almost snarled as Albertson chuckled.

“It could have been worse Cartwright. Jack Keller for motor patrol had to do four months of desk duty before the docs signed off on his return to full duty.” Albertson told Josie.

“Four months?! What the hell happened to him?” Josie asked in shock.

“He was working a routine traffic stop when a tow truck clipped him breaking his femur. When he got out of the hospital the docs restricted him to desk duty until his leg healed. Even after he got his cast off they wouldn’t let him back out on patrol until he completed his PT. The docs kept sighting some bullshit workman’s comp clause.” Albertson told Josie.

“They did the same thing with me. Though I had to deal with the shrinks.” Josie grumbled.

“At least you haven’t had to deal with a Psychic review for a shooting. Delco is assigned to a desk until she completes her mandatory review by the Department shrink. Leaving me short an officer.” Albertson told her with a grunt.

“That shooting was five months ago. I thought IA ruled that a clean shoot. What’s the hold up?” Josie asked she pulled around an 18-wheeler.

“The shrink is pushing to have Delco attend mandatory counseling for the next six months. As much as I hate to say this, there is nothing we can do.” Albertson told Josie honestly.

“Why isn’t the union stepping in?” Josie asked.

“The same reason you had to go through four months of rehab and therapy. Not that I’m going to complain about officers seeking help after a shooting. After the shit I saw in Afghanistan. I have my own nightmares, but that was from combat.” Albertson told her.

“I can understand that. I know I dealt with my far share of shit from my time in the Sandbox. I won’t go into what I went through after my uc work.” Josie told her honestly.

“I heard Detective Kelly Ramsy from that mess is joining the unit. Is that true?” Albertson asked.

“Yes ma’am.” Josie answered.

“What can you tell me about her?” Albertson asked her.

“She starts next week. I think she’ll be a good fit, but you know how it is—everyone’s got their own adjustment period.” Josie glanced at Albertson, gauging her reaction. “I’ve worked with Kelly before, and she’s solid under pressure. Just needs a chance to settle in.”

Albertson nodded thoughtfully, her gaze lingering on the windshield as the hum of traffic filled the silence. “We’ll keep an eye out, make sure she gets what she needs from the team,” she said, the lines around her eyes deepening with a mixture of fatigue and resolve. “It’s tough coming into a new unit, especially with everything we’ve been dealing with lately. But if she’s got your backing, Josie, that counts for something.” Albertson shifted in her seat, the tension easing just a bit as they drove on, both knowing that the coming weeks would test not only Kelly’s adaptability but the resilience of the whole department.

“I got a question for you LT. Why are we having to drive clear over to Hagerstown for the trailers? Isn’t there somewhere close?” Josie asked her.

“For two reasons. The dealer we normally get our trailers from would has to order anything over a five-pen trailer. Secondly the nearest dealer that has what we need is in Hagerstown. We actually got lucky that they have the three trailers.” Albertson told her with a soft chuckle.

“How so?” Josie asked.

“Because the next dealer that carries a trailer that size is over in Harrisburg Pennsylvania.” Albertson told her with a chuckle as Josie cringed. Just the thought of driving through the Pa, traffic hauling a 35ft trailer, was enough to give her a headache.

“No thank you LT. You couldn’t pay me enough to deal with that traffic.” Josie moaned.

“It could have been worse.” Albertson smirked.

“How so?” Josie asked dreading the answer.

“We could be heading for the dealership in Fairfax for our trailers.” Albertson snarked.

“Don’t even threaten me with something like.” Josie snarled then joined her as they both laughed. It was a well know fact that the worse area to drive in Maryland was around the Nation’s Capital.

“It’s not a bad as driving through Cincinnati or LA.” Albertson chuckled.

“True but the worse place to drive has to be DC or New York, hands down.” Josie snarked as she slipped into the outside lane going around an 18-wheeler hauling a John Deer combine. “There goes a shit ton of money.”

“More money than I can afford.” Albertson chuckled.

“From what my aunt tells me one of those costs anywhere between three to eight hundred thousand dollars and up. That’s why a lot of the smaller farmers go together and buy just the one combine. Which they share between all the farms.” Josie told her.

“From the sounds of things. You know a lot about farming.” Albertson said.

“I know enough to be dangerous, but I’ve always wanted to be a police officer. The mounted patrol allows me to combine my love of horses with police work.” Josie admitted as she spotted Information sign for the exit ramp for the Fredrick trailer dealership.

“Damn that was a quick trip.” Albertson said as she spotted the sign.

“What can I say traffic is light today. Though going home is going to be another story. Once we get on sixty-eight it’ll be all up and down going through the mountains of west Maryland.” Josie told her as she pulled over for the outside lane.

“True. We’ll also be hauling full trailers.” Albertson told her.

“About the horses we’re picking up today. I know that Star Dancer is due to be retired at the end of the month. Is one of the horses her replacement?” Josie asked as she pulled onto the off ramp.

“Yup. You’ll actually get your pick of the herd.” Albertson told her.

“Is that why you asked for me?” Josie asked her.

“Nope. I needed an officer who can handle a truck with a trailer in heavy highway traffic.” Albertson told her then chuckled. “I know that one of the requirements to be part of the mounted is to know how to handle a truck and trailer, but let’s be honest. Most of us can barely drive in a straight line hauling a trailer. Forget about backing one up.”

“I hope you’re not including the Skipper in that generalization?” Josie asked jokingly.

“Are you kidded me?! I respect the hell out of the Skipper. He’s one of the finest officers I know, but if I could. I would never let him behind the wheel for one of our cruisers, let alone one of our rigs. That man can’t drive worth a shit.” Albertson snarked.

“I’m glade that I’m not the only one who doesn’t trust his driving.” Josie joked.

“Cartwright you got lucky the one time he drove with you as his partner. Don’t let it get out but we have a standing policy when it comes to the Skipper and our rigs. He never drives unless there is no other choice. Whenever he has to pull a patrol we stick him with Thomason. Honestly I was surprised when he let you drive the rig back to the stables.” Albertson told her.

“I took the keys to the rig from him. During the drive over to Herning Run park he scared the shit out me and the horses. It took me close to ten minutes to calm Star Dancer down enough to ride her.” Josie told her as she worked her way into the Fredrick traffic and pulled to a stop at a traffic light. “Okay Lieutenant which way do we go now?”

“Turn right at the light go three blocks then turn left. The dealership should be on the left.” Albertson told her as Josie maneuvered the big truck through traffic.

Josie nodded, her focus narrowing as she eased the truck into the right turn. Navigating the next few blocks, she kept a watchful eye on the cross streets, weaving carefully between midmorning traffic and watching for any sudden stops. The cityscape blurred past her, brick storefronts, a scattering of pedestrians, and the occasional impatient car horn. At the third intersection, she flipped on the turn signal and swung left as Albertson had directed.

“There it is.” Albertson said, pointing ahead. Josie spotted the dealership’s wide lot and slowed, scanning for the entrance.

“Let’s hope they’ve got the trailers ready for us.” She muttered, already plotting her approach as she prepared to pull in. She was slightly surprised to see Gardy and Rockford waiting for them. She expected for them to already be hooking up their trailers. Climbing out of the truck Josie went up to Gardy asking. “What’s the holdup Sergeant?”

“Waiting for you and the Lieutenant. She needs to sign for the trailers before they’ll let us hookup. That’s what the holdup is, smartass.” Gardy grumbled.

“Keep your britches on Sergeant. I’ll be right back.” Albertson snapped as she headed inside.

“So how did you truck handle?” Rockford asked with a grin.

“Like a dream. I’ll know more once we hookup to the trailers.” Josie told him honestly.

“About that. The dealer told me that one of the trailers is bigger than we ordered.” Gardy told her.

“How much bigger?” Josie worriedly asked.

“It’s a twelve horse pen trailer. Of the three rigs we brought only yours has the power to pull something that big.” Grady told her then asked. “If you want I’ll swap rigs with you.”

“How many horses are we picking up in Accident?” Josie asked him. Gardy checked his clipboard before answering her.

“Let’s see. Eight horses in Hagerstown, ten in Cumberland and the rest in Accident.” Gardy told her then asked. “You still up to making the run to Accident?”

“Sure. I think it’s best that I make the Accident pick up. No offence Sergeant but unless you know that area it’s best to stay out of Garret County. The locals don’t take too kindly to outsiders. As far as most of them are concerned Whisp Ski resort and Deep Creek lake are nothing more than nuisances.” Josie told the two men honestly.

“Sound like you know the area pretty well, Cartwright.” Rockford chuckled.

“I have family that lives up that way. If I know who was stabling our new horses I could probably get away with just faxing them the authorization.” Josie told them with a chuckle.

“According to my paperwork. Our horses are being held at the Lazy Moon Stables.” Gardy told as he looked down at his clipboard.

“Damn. Looks like I’m going to be stuck with the Lt. for the rest of the day.” Josie grumbled.

“The owner of the stable a hard ass?” Rockford asked.

“No, worse. He’s a retired Air Force Colonel.” Josie replied, her tone making it clear she found the prospect daunting.

Rockford whistled softly, shaking his head. “Well, good luck with that. I hear those military types run a tight ship. Just remember, you’re not on base, you’re picking up horses, not doing drills.”

Josie managed a faint grin, but her mind was already running through possible scenarios at the Lazy Moon Stables. She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and turned to Grady. “Let’s just get loaded up and hit the road. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can figure out what kind of day the Colonel’s got planned for us.”

“Soon as the Lt. gets done signing for the trailers we’ll get moving again. About how long do you think it’ll take us to get Hagerstown?” Gardy asked her.

“About an this time of day about forty minutes with traffic. We should be pulling into Hagerstown a little bit before noon.” Josie told him honestly.

“Where’s a good place to eat?” Rockford asked her.

“I don’t know about you but if we have time. I’m hitting Iron City Subs.” Gardy said quickly.

“You’ll have to forgive me gentlemen, but I wait until I hit Accident. You haven’t lived until you’ve had a Blue Moon Cheese Steak sandwich.” Josie told them with a smile.

“Okay Sergeants, let’s get hooked up to our trailers. Cartwright you got the twelve pen trailer.” Albertson said as she exited the dealership.

“About that ma’am. Me and Cartwright are swapping trucks and trailers. So you need to grab your stuff out of the truck.” Gardy told her.

“Seeing as how I have to sign for all the trailers. I guess I better get my act together.” Albertson said as she grabbed her equipment bag from Josie’s old truck. Once she was out of the way Josie started her truck and pulled it over to the three waiting trailers.

With the help of Sergeant Rockford she was soon backing up under the drop leg of the first 8-pen trailer. After parking Josie climbed out and helped Gardy with backing up to the 12-pen trailer. After Grady parked he hoped out and helped guide Albertson under the last trailer. While he was doing that Josie hooked up the electrical and lowered the drop leg onto Gardy’s ball after closing the tail gate. While she was doing that Rockford hooked up Josie’s trailer. With the trailers taken care of Josie grabbed her equipment bag and transferred to the other truck.

Once everyone was hooked up and ready to roll Albertson gather everyone around Rockford’s truck. “Okay people listen up. I will ride with each of you from here out starting with Rockford. After I sign for the horses I get in the next and we roll on. Whoever is hauling that load of horses takes care of loading. Then heads home. Any questions?”

“Any chance of stopping for lunch before we make the first pickup?” Gardy asked her.

“I don’t see why not. Suggestions?” Albertson said.

“Iron City Subs.” Gardy suggested.

“Five Guys Burgers.” Rockford put in.

“I’m good with whatever you decide on. I can still get my cheese steak for dinner.” Josie smiled.

“Seeing as how it is up to me. We’ll hit Iron City Subs for lunch. Now let’s get rolling. I want to get home sometime tonight.” Albertson said as she picked up her equipment bag.

“If you want to just throw that in my truck ma’am you can.” Josie told her as she opened the rear passenger door of her truck door. Albertson just smiled and tossed her bag in next to Josie’s. With the driving arrangements shorted the three police trucks left the specialty dealership. A little over 30 minutes later they were pulling in the back parking lot Iron City Subs. Josie had to admit that Iron City sub sandwiches were pretty good. Not mention filling and cheap. By the time they were done eating it was going on twelve-thirty. Which meant they needed to get a move on.

Thankfully the stable where they were making their first stop was on Highway 40. It took the three trucks twenty minutes to work their way through Hagerstown and another ten minutes to reach the stables on Highway 40. Instead of driving up to the stables Josie and Gardy parked on the side of the Highway before heading up to the farm to check out the horses. At twenty after one they were once again heading west while Rockford stayed behind to load up his eight horses and head back to Baltimore. While Josie made the drive by herself she enjoyed the solitude.

The road stretched ahead, punctuated only by the gentle hum of tires on asphalt and the rhythmic rattle from the trailer behind. The midday sun peeked through scattered clouds, casting fleeting shadows over fields and roadside farms as Josie kept a steady hand on the wheel. Passing the occasional car or farm truck, she let her mind wander to the task at hand and the horses waiting at the next stop. With each mile, the weight of responsibility felt lighter, replaced by the simple satisfaction of a job well underway. The radio played softly in the background, blending with her thoughts as she navigated the familiar route, anticipation building for the final leg home and the quiet reward of a day’s work nearly complete.

As she drove towards Cumberland Josie thought about the first horses they picked up. The six Walkers, and two Percherons would make a fine addition to the Mounted Patrol’s heard. Even though she saw them before having to leave none of them really tickled her interest. Josie was slightly surprised that they would be collecting the last of the Walkers, two Clydesdales, four Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds at their next stop. Josie knew this part of Maryland. She expected there to more Percherons and Clydesdales. Good farm stock work horses. Then again Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds were two common breeds good for riding.

She considered the prospect with growing anticipation, wondering whether any of the Morgans or Saddlebreds would stand out as a true partner for her on patrol. The thought of swinging by Sky Warrior Pastures lingered at the back of her mind a place with a reputation for giving wild Mustangs a second chance. Though she doubted their herd would offer the kind of horse she needed for the unit. Regardless, Josie trusted her instincts; she knew when she saw the right horse, something would click, and that moment was just a short drive away.

When they reached Hickman Stables in Cumberland Josie parked down by the road and rode up with Gardy and Albertson to the stables. While Albertson was signing for the horses and handing over the their payment Josie looked over the small herd. Once again she was disappointed that none of the horses clicked with her. With a heavy sigh Josie walked back down the driveway to her truck to wait for Albertson. When the Lt arrived she started the truck and continued her drive west on Highway 40 towards route 219 while Gardy stay to load the ten horses and head back to Baltimore. Albertson took the time to ask Josie her opinion about the horses they’ve picked up so far. Josie took a few moments before answering, thoughtfully recounting the strengths and temperaments she’d observed so far.

“They’re all solid horses, ma’am, well suited for patrol work,” she said, her gaze still fixed on the winding highway ahead. “But none of them feel quite right for me personally. I guess I’m hoping the next stop has one that just stands out a horse with that spark, you know?”

Albertson nodded in understanding, offering a reassuring smile as the countryside rolled by. The quiet camaraderie between them was comfortable, each woman lost in her own thoughts but united by their shared mission. With miles yet to go and another stable ahead, anticipation and a touch of hope lingered in the cabin, blending seamlessly with the steady rhythm of the road. We they finally reached Accident Albertson pointed over at the speed limit signs.

“They don’t give you much warning do they.” She commented about the sudden drop in speed limit from 40 to 25 mph. “I wonder how many speeding tickets get issued through here?”

“Not a lot really ma’am. The few times someone does get a ticket through here it’s usually given by the High Patrol. They’re barracks for this part of Maryland is down in McHenry.” Josie said as she turned onto Accident Bittinger Rd.

“The way you’re driving you must know where you’re going.” Albertson said politely.

“You could say that ma’am. There’s only one stabling farm in Accident, Butterfly Pastures.” Josie chuckled as she turned down Fratz road. “We’ll be there in a few minutes.”

“Thank god. This day has dragged out.” Albertson sighed.

“It could be worse, ma’am. You could be looking at working a full shift when we get back.” Josie snarked only to have Albertson give her a dirty look causing Josie to chuckle.

“You do know that I’m the one who sets the roster?” Albertson snarled.

“I do now Lt. How about to make it up to you. I treat you to the best cheese steak sandwich this side of the Eastern Continental divide?” Josie offered as she slowed down to make the turn for the drive to Butterfly Pastures.

“Deal, but it had better be as good as you say.” Albertson told her.

“Trust me ma’am. They are. The good news is our return trip will go a lot faster. We can take the Interstate all the way back to Baltimore.” Josie told her with a grin as she drove up the drive to the stables. As she drove pass the coral Josie spotted three American Saddlebreds, and three Morgans. “Those must be our horses Lieutenant.”

“I hope so. Those are some fine looking animals.” Albertson told her.

As Josie eased the vehicle to a stop near the barn, the afternoon air was thick with the scent of hay and the distant sounds of horses shifting in their stalls. She stepped out, motioning for Albertson to follow, and together they walked toward the corral, boots crunching on gravel. The horses lifted their heads, ears pricked forward in curiosity, and Josie felt a surge of pride at the sight of the sturdy Saddlebreds and graceful Morgans waiting for them. Albertson paused at the fence, her gaze lingering on the dark bay Morgans, admiring their sleek coats and calm demeanor.

“Let’s see if they live up to their reputation.” Albertson said quietly, her earlier fatigue replaced by a flicker of anticipation. Josie nodded, already picturing the ride ahead and the promise of a quicker return to Baltimore, buoyed by the thought of a well-earned cheese steak sandwich before their journey back to Baltimore. With a shared glance, the two women stepped forward, ready to meet the horses, and the next leg of their mission.

“Afternoon ladies. How can Butterfly Pastures be of service?” An old man asked them.

“Afternoon sir. We’re here to pickup the horses for the Baltimore PD.” Albertson told him.

“Then you’re looking at the right horses. Tom Hickman foreman.” The said introducing himself.

“Lieutenant Sarah Albertson, sir. This is Officer Josephina Cartwright.” Sarah said making introductions before pointing at the six horses. “Care to make the introductions?”

“Well the two bays are Jelly and Bambam. You can tell them apart by the white flash on Jelly. The black is Wave Dancer.” Tom told them only to smile as Josie climbed over the fence. “If I was you little lady. I would take my time around him. Wave Dancer can be temperamental.”

“Is that so big boy? Are you temperamental?” Josie asked as she walked up to the big stallion. Holding our her hand palm up Josie let the horse take the root beer candy from her hand. After taking the candy the big horse butted her softly in the chest. “No you’re not temperamental are you. You’re just picky about your friends.”

“Well I’ll be damned.” Tom chuckled, shaking his head in amusement as he watched Josie and Wave Dancer interact. “Looks like you’ve already made a friend,” he said, tipping his hat back and glancing at Albertson. “That one’s got a good eye for people, he don’t trust just anyone, but if he likes you, he’ll follow you to the ends of the earth.”

Albertson grinned, her earlier reservations fading as she watched Josie scratch behind the stallion’s ears, the horse leaning into her touch with obvious pleasure.

“If the rest of ’em are half as agreeable, we’re in for some good mounts.” Albertson remarked, glancing at the other horses with anticipation. Tom gestured for them to come closer, ready to introduce the remaining horses, the late afternoon sunlight casting long shadows across the corral as the promise of the journey ahead settled over them.

Josie just smiled as Albertson and Tom went over to the three remaining horse. She had her new mount. “You and me are going to get along just fine. Aren’t we big boy?”

The big horse just whinnied and nuzzled her hand for hand for another candy. Josie chuckled patted him on the snout. Wave Dancer snorted softly, nudging Josie’s shoulder as if to confirm their new bond. She laughed, the sound carrying across the quiet pasture, and gently stroked his sleek neck. The horse’s ears swiveled forward, attentive and curious, responding to every movement with an eager trust that felt almost uncanny.

With Wave Dancer won over Josie set about loading the Morgans into the trailer. Starting with the big stallion. It didn’t take Josie long to load them and soon she was loading the three Saddlebreds. With the last of the horses loaded Josie took a few minutes to go through the stables and collect their tack. As she did Josie scouted the horses still in their stalls. She was surprised to see a fairly large number of Mustangs. During one of her trips out to the truck she stopped a stable hand. “Excuse me sir, but are the Mustangs for sell?”

“No ma’am. Come back in a few months we should have some for sell.” The man told her.

“Thank you sir.” Josie said and headed out to the truck. She still had a cheese steak sandwich to eat and a long trip home ahead of her.

-----tbc-----

To all my readers Happy Holidays.