Page 49 of Promised to the Cursed Laird

The boy looked offended. "He didnae mind."

The pony chose that moment to toss its head and sidestep.

Neilina raised an eyebrow.

The boy looked at the pony.

Then at her.

"Perhaps he did."

She laughed.

From the next pony came a small, solemn voice.

"Are ye truly the laird's lady?" the small girl asked, tipping her head up at Neilina with open, unguarded curiosity.

"I'm nae certain what I am yet," Neilina said, honestly. The answer made the girl giggle rather than press further, satisfied simply to have asked.

The boy beside her snorted.

Neilina pointed at him. "And ye are meant tae be watching where yer pony is going."

He immediately looked down. Too late. The pony had wandered halfway towards the fence.

"Ach—"

Neilina caught the reins before he could panic.

"Easy. Don't pull. Turn him gently."

The boy did as she said, tongue caught between his teeth in concentration.

"That's it. Good. Now ask him tae walk."

The pony took three obedient steps.

The boy's face lit up.

"I did it!"

"Ye did."

"I made him listen!"

"Do not let that go tae yer head."

"I'll make him jump next."

"Ye absolutely will not."

"Why?"

"Because I enjoy having all four of yer limbs attached."

The children burst into laughter.

Even the little girl tried to hide her grin behind her hand.