James’ phone chirped in his pocket. The mare voiced her displeasure with a snort, but the pebble had finally slid out of her shoe and he felt comfortable letting her foot down. “There, there,” he comforted her as he stood up. Briefly, he scratched her nose. “No need to get jealous.”
Leaning against the wall of the stable, he checked his phone and noted the name with a smile. Aw, Olivia! Lovely girl. He could certainly take time out for her. Too bad it had to be when he probably smelled like animals, though. Ah, well. Scooping up his helmet again, he left the stall and went back out into the shady day.
“Miss Olivia!” he greeted her as he came around the corner, sticking his helmet onto his head just so he could tip it for her. “How are you this afternoon? You’re looking exceptionally nice today. That’s a beautiful dress.” Coming close (but not too close, just in case) he gave her a full smile and let his helmet hang from the tips of his fingers.