The smallest and gentelest of movements had caused the mare to jump like a doe ready to bolt for their life. Alpenglow paused mid stride with hesitation. She didn’t wish to cause further harm. The mare apologises and explains that it was an involuntary action. Alpenglow nods and smiles warmly. Though she is very curious to know what had made this mare so frightened to begin with. Or maybe this was just her natural disposition. Afterall fear was a necessary survival skill.
The painted mare brings herself alongside her chestnut companion. Close enough to talk comfortably but not too close to encroach on personal space. Alpenglow slightly tilted her head to one side with curiosity and her coal rimmed ears pricked forward to listen to the words that reluctantly came out. There was something stopping the nervous stranger from talking. Perhaps it was fear? Or even shame? Alpenglow could see the poor mare steadily becoming more and more panicked as the silence between them grew stiff and heavy.
“It’s alright,” Alpenglow chimed in with a wide smile. Her breath billowing in the cold winter air. Maybe she wasn’t ready to talk about whatever was on her mind. Perhaps it was best to switch the tracks and talk about something else entirely. “My name is Alpenglow. What’s yours?” The question was direct but by no means forceful. |