She blushes, looking down at my suntanned skin next to her much lighter shade.
“I’m glad you like it.”
“Let’s go then, darlin’. Don’t wanna lose daylight.”
I grab her hand, chug the rest of the wine, and lead her out the front door. We only have a couple of hours until sunset, and the temp is still a little warm.
We step up to the horses, and she pets my mare’s neck gently.
“What’s her name?”
“Lady Liberty.”
“She’s beautiful.”
“She’s a good girl. You need help getting on?”
She shakes her head and sticks her foot in the leather stirrup. She lifts up onto the horse like she’s done it a hundred times.
“You showing off?”
I make sure her saddle is tight enough before loosening the reins and handing them to her.
She smiles, shaking her head. “It’s not my first time.”
I mount Butter, and he immediately starts shuffling his feet around. He doesn’t like the picnic basket I strapped to his back behind the saddle.
“Whoa, whoa, chill out. You’re all right.” He finally settles down and stands still. I look over at Dallas. “You ready?”
She nods, gently nudging Lady Liberty. Of course, my girl listens right away and falls into step beside Butter.
“How was your day?” I ask her.
“I tried to keep busy. I went for a run, watered the garden, and ordered the boys some new Legos. Did you see that my tomato plants have already sprouted?”
“I did see that. How long till they have fruit on them?”
“I don’t know. A couple of months probably.”
“What are we making first?”
“I was thinking some pico de gallo and fajitas would be so good with fresh tomatoes.”
“Mmm. Yes, ma’am. Let’s do it.”
“So, are you competing in the Spring Showdown?”
“I might be.”
I lead her and Lady Liberty down a hill toward the low crossing at the creek. It has a few inches of water from the last rain, but it’s not too deep. I ride Butter across first, and the mare follows.
“What do you mean?”
“Only if I get the right partner.” I wink at her.
She shakes her head. “No. Not happening.”
“Why? You’re a good dancer.”
