A little hobbit lass dropped a note by Laurie's table just as she was finished off a batch of eggs. She skimmed it quickly, then rose, draining the last of her tea. She walked by where the man with the bright eyes was standing and gave him what she hoped was a welcoming smile.
Out the door and into the barn Laurie strode. She grabbed her saddle and bridle she had laid aside the night before. Nell swung her head over the stall door and watched Laurie approach with trepidation. Laurie could read her horse's thoughts perfectly. "Ah no, not again, just when we find somewhere comfortable to stay, she wants to leave again." Laurie laughed and kissed Nell on her soft, brown nose. "We're just running a quick errand, it won't take long." Nell nudged her fondly on the shoulder, and Laurie entered the stall. She threw on the saddle and pulled the bridle on, pulling Nell's short forelock over the headband. She mounted, adjusting her white dress around her before nudging her faithful horse into a fast trot down the snowy road.
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