Page 23 of Meadowsweet and Marigold
As Meadow explained the proper technique, his voice remained steady and deliberate, each word carefully chosen. Marigold found herself hanging on every syllable, not just for the information but for the comforting cadence of his speech.
"Remember," he continued, "horses can sense your emotions. If you're calm, she'll be calm too."
Marigold took a deep breath, trying to channel Meadow's tranquility.
As she faced Daisy, she couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope ignite within her. Here, in this peaceful barn, surrounded by the gentle sounds of horses and Meadow's reassuring presence, she felt further from her painful past than she had in months.
"You're doing great," Meadow encouraged softly. "Now, would you like to give her a pat?"
Marigold nodded, her heart fluttering with anticipation.
She extended her hand, fingers trembling slightly as they neared Daisy's neck. The mare's coat was softer than she'd imagined, warm and alive beneath her touch.
A small gasp escaped her lips at the connection.
"She's so warm," Marigold murmured, stroking gently. The simple act of touching the horse seemed to melt away some of the tension she'd been carrying for so long. "It's... soothing, somehow."
Meadow's voice was low and encouraging.
"Horses have a way of grounding us. They live in the present moment, and being around them can help us do the same."
As Marigold continued to pet Daisy, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. It was a stark contrast to the chaos and betrayal that had defined her recent past.
Here, in this barn with this gentle creature, she felt a glimmer of peace.
"Now," Meadow said, stepping closer, "I'll show you how to mount. Watch closely."
Marigold's eyes followed Meadow as he approached Daisy's left side.
His movements were fluid and practiced, exuding a quiet confidence that captivated her. In one smooth motion, he placed his left foot in the stirrup, gripped the saddle, and swung himself up onto the horse's back.
The ease with which he moved stirred something in Marigold.
She found herself admiring not just his skill, but the self-assured way he carried himself. It was so different from the showy, aggressive Alphas she'd known in the city. Meadow's strength was quiet, steady, and undeniably attractive.
"You make it look so easy," Marigold said, a note of admiration in her voice.
Meadow dismounted with the same grace.
"Years of practice," he replied with a modest smile. "But I have no doubt you'll pick it up quickly. Your background in ballet will give you an advantage in balance and body awareness."
Marigold felt a flush of pleasure at his words, surprised by how much the simple compliment meant to her.
"I hope so," she said softly, her fingers still absently stroking Daisy's neck. "I want to learn. To be as comfortable here as you are."
Meadow stepped back, gesturing for Marigold to approach.
"Your turn," he said softly. "Remember, left foot in the stirrup, grip the saddle, and push up with your right leg."
Marigold took a deep breath, steeling herself. She placed her left foot in the stirrup, gripping the saddle tightly. As she began to push off, her body tensed, throwing her off balance.
She felt herself tipping forward, a gasp escaping her lips as she tumbled.
In an instant, Meadow was there. His strong arms caught her, wrapping securely around her waist. Marigold found herself pressed against his chest, her face flushed with embarrassment and something else entirely.
"I've got you," Meadow murmured, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine.
Marigold looked up, meeting his eyes.
