HM- Horses Defeat

I opened my eyes. A horse nuzzled my cheek. Another ghostly pale horse lowered its head and nudged me. It wanted
to be petted.
The horses formed a close circle around me, whinnying softly, bumping me gently.
I wrapped my arms around a horse’s neck.
And from some faraway place, I heard a soft voice. Laura’s voice. “Carly Beth, you were the only one to care for
them in all these years,” she called to me. “The only one to show them any love.”
It took me a long moment to realize what Laura was talking about.
The carrots!
I’d brought them carrots — a symbol of kindness and love.
My heart pounding. I climbed to my feet. And with a cry of joy, I ripped off the Haunted Mask. Yes! It came off! It
came off!
The cool air greeted my burning face. Slowly, the anger and rage floated away. I could feel the mask release its hold
on my mind.

-Chapter 27