Sanei Thank You claimed an easy victory in the Sapporo Junior Stakes.
Her performance was flawless—breaking from fourth, surging ahead, and holding off every challenger with grace and power. A perfect win.
"Thank You, that was amazing!!"
"Thanks to my trainer, Viola. Thank you."
"Great job!"
I was thrilled. A major prize win is no small feat. It's a milestone.
"Congratulations, Thank You. Rice won't lose either."
"Thank you, Rice."
Rice's turn comes in two months. I hope she shines just as brightly.
I was fired up, ready to work harder than ever.
"Oops…"
"Viola!?"
My legs gave out and Rice caught me just before I fall.
I hadn't fully recovered from my earlier fatigue.
"Maybe I got too excited."
"Viola, you should see the doctor again."
"I'll go once we're back in Tokyo."
The Sapporo expedition was ending. We'd return tomorrow. But the summer training camp still loomed ahead.
Despite the concern, the trip had been a resounding success.
"Viola, you're pregnant."
"Eh?"
"You're pregnant. About four or five months, I'd say. Do you have any idea?"
I turned to Rice who looked down and was blushing furiously.
It wasn't bad news—but I had no idea how horse girls even had children together. Apparently, Rice had been… proactive.
My stomach was slightly swollen. I hadn't felt sick, but something had been off.
Four or five months ago… Valentine's Day.
Looking back, I still didn't understand how it worked. Rice didn't seem to either.
"Well, Rice is just a clue…"
"If you know the other person, that's enough. But Viola, you're still young—please take care of yourself."
"What should I watch out for?"
"Just regular checkups, good food, and gentle movement."
"Okay."
The diagnosis was surprisingly simple.
I'd expected more drama—student births, social complications—but apparently, it wasn't uncommon. Another cultural gap between this life and my last.
The real concern was money.
Thankfully, Thank You's win brought in prize money. We'd be okay for now.
"Um, Viola…?"
"What is it, Rice-chan?"
"Rice will work hard to win lots and earn enough for you and the baby!"
"You don't have to be so over-mindful."
Welp what's done is done.
We'll need help from our families. And I'll really need to start researching what comes next.