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THE LONG SHOT

In response to my friends at Fandango’s One-Word Challenge,
today’s word is β€œgambler.”

β€œSo, kid, your ma says you wanna work on my horse ranch. Is that right?” Micah asked Billy Bob.

β€œYes sir. I love everything β€˜bout horses and I asked my ma if we can get one and she told me we couldn’t afford one so the only way I can be around horses was to come work on your ranch” Billy Bob answered, feet kicking up dust as he shuffled around nervously.

β€œWhat is it you love so much β€˜bout horses, kid?” asked Micah.

β€œThey’re the most beautiful animals I ever seen. I like the idea of taking a wild horse and workin’ with him every day, getting’ him to trust you” replied Billy Bob, his eyes lighting up with excitement.

β€œBreakin’ in a horse is one of hardest things I ever done, kid. Everything β€˜bout being a horse rancher is hard. You ready for that?” Micah asked the kid.

β€œI reckon. All I know is I need to learn everything there is β€˜bout horses, what makes ’em tick, how to train ’em to be the best horses ever. I can’t think of anything more excitin’ … except getting’ rich, that is.” Billy Bob answered. He had a burning in him that Micah saw clearly now.

Micah removed his Stetson, pulled out a bandana from his back pocket and wiped his brow. “Well, kid. You sure got the desire, needin’ to know everything β€˜bout horses. But you gotta understand one thing β€˜bout workin’ on a horse ranch: it ain’t gonna make you rich. That’s a real long shot!” Micah waited for Billy Bob’s reaction.

Billy Bob didn’t hesitate. β€œThat’s ok, sir. I’m smart; that’s what everybody says anyway. I’ll learn right quick. Besides, I don’t plan on workin’ on a horse ranch forever. No sir. Once I know everything there is to know β€˜bout horses, I’m gonna follow my dream.”

β€œAnd what’s your dream, kid” Micah asked, his curiosity aroused.

β€œI’m gonna be the smartest, most famous and richest gambler that ever was” Billy Bob replied with proud determination.

NAR Β© 2022