“Another neighbor?” Callie asks. She’s standing between their stalls now, scratching both of my horses’ necks at the same time. This woman is something else. She’s a natural with them, and honestly, I’m impressed. Animals have a way of knowing a person’s character, and my ladies clearly approve.
They also need to get outside and stretch their legs, and Douglas lives a little far for a walk. An idea sprouts, and I let it grow.
“Aye, another neighbor. He’ll be needing a hand with his boiler.” I slide my hand into my pocket and watch her for a reaction. “And these girls need some exercise.”
Her head whips back to me immediately.
“Fancy a ride, Callie?”
CHAPTER TWELVE
CALLIE
It’s been toolong since I’ve been on the back of a horse, and it’s been literallyneversince I’ve done this in the snow. We don’t get weather like this where I grew up. My winters were low fifties and rainy at worst, and that wasn’t too consistent. Most of my Christmases in Geyserville were sunny.
I’m not going to lie, this is terrifying. Luna was worried about me getting in a car wreck on Scotland’s icy roads. What happens if Piggie’s hooves slide?
Gavin’s not concerned. He seems to think his horses are smart enough to avoid the ice. But they’re still animals. People slip on ice all the time, and we know what to look for.
In all fairness, I chose to come. And Idoknow how to ride.
“It’s on the other side of this field,” he says, pointing toward the stone house in the distance. Then his gaze slides over my form, making me straighten up. “You faring alright?”
“Perfect.” Oh nice. My voice is too high.
“Now, just a wee hint about this pal of mine before we arrive.”
“Don’t tell me. His eyes are permanently crossed and he is greatly offended if you don’t maintain eye contact at all times?”
Gavin gives me a flat look.
“Not that? Then I bet he’s missing both his right arm and his right leg.”
“All limbs in place.”
“What is it then?” I ask.
“Douglas is a bit of a flirt.”
“I’m honored you felt it was safe to bring me to his house.”
“Watch out you don’t trip and fall into his arms.”
“Maybe my ego needs the boost,” I mutter.
Gavin looks at me sharply, but I pull Piggie ahead before he can say anything else. Given how much he was yanking my chain with Patty, it’s probably safe to assume he’s doing the same thing now.
Douglas is standing on his porch when we ride up to the house. He frowns at us beneath a tartan bonnet and round spectacles. The end of his round nose is red from the cold, and he isn’t layered enough for this weather, so I hurry to dismount.
Gavin takes both horses’ reins and ties them to the railing. “Hiya, Douglas. Braw day innit?”
“Wee bit blustery.”
“This is my friend, Callie Winter. She’s visiting from the States.”
“Hello.” I reach to shake his hand.
He looks down at it before giving me a grumpy nod and turning toward the house. “In here.”
