Spring seems so far away as a chill wind sweeps across the open landscape. Tarek shivers for just a moment. His coat shines almost white in the early morning light. He is covered in sea salt and frost, tell tale of a recent swim. If this bothers him, he doesn't let it show. He paws diligently through the snow, nibbling at what grass remains. His tail swings lazily from side to side, only out of habit. There are no flies this time of year.
Though his eyes focus on his grazing, his ears turn, always listening. He hears the other horse foraging at a distance, but doesn't immediately acknowledge her. He peers at her from his position, with head still lowered, and quietly, he edges nearer. The lines on her face, creased with worry, and her pregnant belly don't go unnoticed. She looks like she could use a friend.
There are no need for words. Tarek closes the gap between them, one halting step at a time, still rooting through the snow with tactile lips. In his own subtle way, he joins the mare for breakfast in the commons. Dark eyes occasionally look her way. There is no threat in his gaze, only an uncertain anticipation. He hopes she won't reject his company.