The Farmhand's Crush

Chapter: 8

I was buzzing with anticipation as I made my way to Nic's family farm. He had offered to teach me how to ride horses, and while I was excited, a knot of nervousness twisted in my stomach.

After a quick snack, I packed a small bag with my sketchbook and some snacks, eager to spend the day immersed in nature and new experiences. The drive to the farm was filled with picturesque views—vibrant wildflowers, grazing cattle, and the distant hills that framed the landscape.

When I arrived, Nic greeted me with a warm smile, leaning against the wooden fence that surrounded the paddock. He wore a casual plaid shirt and jeans, a cowboy hat perched on his head, giving him an easygoing charm.

"Hey City. Ready to conquer the world of horseback riding?" he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Ready as I'll ever be," I replied, trying to mask my nerves with a grin. "Just promise you'll catch me if I fall"

"Deal," he said, laughter dancing in his voice. "Come on, let's get you set up."

As we walked toward the barn, I took in the sights and sounds of the farm. The air was filled with the earthy scent of hay and horses, a comforting reminder of the connection to nature I had longed for. Nic led me to a chestnut mare named Bella, who stood calmly in her stall.

"This is Bella," Nic introduced her, gently patting the horse's neck. "She's sweet and very patient, so you'll be in good hands."

I stepped closer, my apprehension mixed with excitement. "She's beautiful," I said, reaching out to stroke Bella's soft coat. The mare nuzzled my hand, and I felt a spark of confidence.

"Let's get you saddled up," Nic instructed, guiding me through the steps. He explained everything patiently, and I felt grateful for his calm demeanor. After a few moments, the horses were ready to mount.

"Okay, just swing your leg over like this," Nic demonstrated, climbing onto his own horse, a handsome black stallion named Duke. "Then sit up straight and hold onto the reins. You're going to do great!"

I took in a deep breath, feeling the weight of the saddle beneath me as I swung my leg over Bella. I settled into the saddle, gripping the reins tightly as I tried to steady myself. The moment felt exhilarating, but my nerves bubbled to the surface.

"Just relax," Nic called from beside me, his voice soothing. "Breathe and go with her movements. Horses can sense when you're tense."

"Right," I replied, attempting to ease my grip. We began to walk slowly around the paddock, Nic riding alongside me, offering his encouragement.

"You're doing it! Just keep your balance," he said, flashing me an encouraging smile.

As we walked, I focused on the rhythm of Bella's movements, my nervousness starting to fade. I enjoyed the feel of the sun on my skin and the gentle sounds of the farm surrounding us. However, as we transitioned to a slow trot, I felt a rush of adrenaline mixed with fear.

"Okay, just hold on tight!" Nic called out, grinning as he nudged Duke into a trot alongside her.

I squeezed my legs around Bella, but as the mare picked up speed, panic set in. I felt myself swaying slightly, the motion more jarring than I had anticipated.

"Nic!" I shouted, my heart racing. Just as I began to feel unsteady, Bella made a sudden turn, causing me to lurch to the side.

Before I could react, Nic was there, reaching out and catching me just as I began to slip from the saddle. His strong arms wrapped around my waist, steadying me and preventing a fall.

"Whoa there! I've got you!" he said, his voice a mix of concern and amusement. He helped me regain my balance, and I couldn't help but laugh nervously, relief washing over me.

"Thanks! That was close!" I said, my cheeks flushed, both from embarrassment and the thrill of the moment.

"Don't worry, that happens to everyone when they're starting out," Nic assured my, his grip still firm around my waist as he helped me adjust in the saddle. "Just take it slow. We can go at your pace."

I nodded, feeling grateful for his support. "Okay, I'll try again. But maybe just a little slower this time?"

"Absolutely," Nic said, his smile reassuring. "Let's walk for a bit, and I'll guide you through it."

As we continued, the initial nerves faded away, replaced by laughter and shared stories. We rode side by side, and I began to feel more comfortable in the saddle. With each step, I regained my confidence, enjoying the rhythm of riding.

After some time, we took a break, dismounting and leading the horses to a nearby patch of grass. Nic held out a handful of carrots, feeding Bella while I sketched the scene in my sketchbook, capturing the beauty of the horses and the vibrant farm setting.

"Look at you, the artist at work!" Nic teased, glancing over his shoulder. "You've got quite the talent."

"Thanks, I'm just trying to capture the moment," I replied, glancing up at him. "Today has been amazing, despite the near-fall."

"See? You're a natural," he said, nudging me playfully. "And now you have a funny story to tell. 'The day I almost fell off a horse and Nic saved me!'"

I laughed along, enjoying the light-hearted atmosphere. As we chatted and fed the horses, the bond between us grew even stronger. 

By the time we finished, the sun was beginning to dip low on the horizon, casting a warm glow across the fields. Nic turned to me, a twinkle in his eye. "Want to try riding again before we wrap up for the day?"

"Absolutely," I said, my heart racing with excitement rather than fear now. "Let's do it"

With renewed confidence, we mounted the horses once more. This time, I felt the thrill of riding flow through my veins, embracing the experience fully. As we trotted around the paddock, the laughter and joy echoed between them, and I realized that this day was one that I would always cherish.

As we wrapped up the time at the farm, I felt a mix of gratitude and exhilaration. Riding had been an adventure, one that had brought me closer to Nic and made me feel more alive than ever. As we walked back toward the barn, the sun setting behind them, I couldn't shake the feelings I felt towards him.

Watching him put the horses back in the stables, and make sure that their water and food were topped up, I realised that he was just a kind soul. All he has done for me I am greatful for.

He glaced at me, quickly finishing up with the horses. Dusting his hands off on his jeans he smiled coming towards me "So City, what do you think?" flashing me a charming smile.

"I think that I really want to do that again." I answered honestly "Just without falling next time" I laughed, it seems as though I really like embarrassing myself in front of him.

He reached out from my hand, nodding to my words. Tracing his fingers up my arm to my elbow and back down again. He looked nervous.

"Would you-" "City i-" We said at the same time, laughing.

"You go City"

"Would you like to have dinner so this doesnt have to end?" I asked, getting nervous myself and looking down towards our hands that were still interwined.

"I would love to" He smiled down at me.