"Roberts, Nora - Irish Hearts 1 - Irish Thoroughbred" - читать интересную книгу автора (Roberts Nora)

"His eyes aren't mean," Adelia commented, and several pairs of eyes
focused on her for the first time.

"This is Adelia, my niece. Dee, this is Hank Manners, assistant trainer.
Tom Buckley, on the ground there, is an exercise boy, and George Johnson
and Stan Beall, grooms." After the introductions had been completed,
Adelia quickly turned her attention back to the horse.

"They don't understand you, do they? Ah, but you're a fine fellow."

"Miss," Hank cautioned as she lifted a hand to stroke his muzzle, "I
wouldn't do that. He's not in the best of moods to begin with, and he
doesn't take to strangers."

"Ooch, but it's not strangers we'll be for long." Smiling, she stroked
the length of his strong muzzle, and Majesty blew from wide nostrils.

"Paddy," Hank began in cautious warning, but the other man lifted a hand
to silence him.

"A fine, beautiful horse you are. I've never seen another to compare
with you, and that's the truth of it." She continued to speak as she ran
her hands over his smooth neck and side. "You're built for
running--strong, long legs and a fine, wide chest." Her hands moved over
him freely as the horse remained still, ears at attention. She fondled
his nose before resting her cheek against his neck. "I bet you're lonely
for someone to talk to."

"I'll be switched." Hank observed Adelia's confident handling of the
frisky colt and shook his head. "He's never let anyone do that before,
not even you, Paddy."

"Animals have feelings as well, Mr. Manners." She brought her face from
the Thoroughbred's neck and turned around. "He wants some pampering."

"Well, little lady, you certainly seem to have a way with him." He gave
her a grin expressive of both amusement and admiration before turning
his attention to Paddy. "He still needs to be exercised. I'll give Steve
a call."

"Uncle Paddy." Adelia grabbed his arm on impulse, eyes shining with
excitement. "I can do it. Let me take him out."

"I don't think a little lady like you could handle a big fire-breather
like Majesty," Hank put in before Paddy could speak, and Adelia drew
herself up to the full of her five feet two inches and tilted her chin.

"There's nothing on four legs I can't ride."

"Is Travis back yet?" Paddy concealed his smile and addressed Hank.