Horseflies

He was snoozing next to Topper and Brigette and though they didn't move their heads all of them twitched their ears in my direction as I approached. I ran a hand over every rump in greeting and then stood quietly next to Pauper not needing to use words but just to feel the safety of his presence. My sweet show-horse-turned-warhorse had me feeling a little less scared after his terrible wonderful display. I leaned into his silky mane-covered neck and breathed in his warm therapeutic scent. He was my constant companion my protector my best friend. I knew there in that moment how I wanted to ride into battle. It would be me and him nothing between us just like in the beginning.