winter_witch on BudgetPixel

**First Love #2** I remember leaning on the fence, shielding my eyes from the sun as I watched you ride around the paddock. You smiled each time you cantered by, guiding your horse to the next jump . . . the thud of the hooves quickening, then that split-second of silence as the horse leapt, your body leaning forwards . . . the clatter as a hoof clipped and shook the topmost pole . . . my heart in my mouth as you landed safetly on the other side and carried on. A while later you dismounted, and I opened the gate to let you through. Your eyes were shining. “You should have a go one day,” you said as we walked across the courtyard to the stables. And I mumbled, “maybe,” knowing I wouldn't, because I was afraid of a horse’s height, of its strength; too scared to take the risk. And too scared to take the risk of telling you how I felt . . . afraid of the bruise of rejection. I was young, and shy, and in quiter moments I think of you still.

Comments