6
"There you go – steady on. He won't bite, love."
Lily was about to admonish him for his warnings, knowing full well she could do this on her own. But she couldn't deny the nagging nervousness tingling in her fingers as she held her open palm out with the piece of apple ready. Not because she was meeting Will's horse for the first time, but because she was meeting Arthur, Will's best friend.
The white thoroughbred stallion took the apple with his fuzzy lips, and Lilly smiled as it crunched in his teeth. She turned to Will with excitement in her eyes. "See? He likes you."
"It is an honor to meet you, Arthur," Lily greeted him more confidently, running her hand along the horse's neck at Will's guidance. Her fingers touched the coarse mane, and Arthur shook his head to toss it impressively. "My ancestors held your kind in high regard. I am very fortunate to make your acquaintance."
"Horses are a part of your home culture?" Will asked with interest as he retrieved another cut of the apple to offer to his friend.
Lily thought a moment in surprise, wondering how her words were misconstrued this time. She continued to pet Arthur as she tried to explain. "Oh. Not very much, no. I mean that he is a friend close to your heart. I am very honored to meet someone so important to you, Will."
Will was glad he was on the other side of the horse now, leaning his head against the familiar warmth of his friend to calm the jump in his heart. Arthur nickered as if to tease him.