The mare's ears flicked forward in interest. "Aren't you…

““The mare's ears flicked forward in interest. "Aren't you lovely?" Elspeth crooned to her. "I'm sorry I didn't think to bring you a treat. That was quite remiss of me." Plum had stopped by her feet, but now he ventured close to the horse. Elspeth watched. Octavia could hurt the dog should she wish. The mare merely lowered her head, snuffling curiously at Plum. Plum licked her nose. Octavia jerked her head back but then lowered it to blow at the dog and then shake her head as if in horsey laughter. Plum immediately went into a play bow--- the first that Elspeth had seen him make. She laughed. "Silly. How do you expect Octavia to play with you? She'd run right over if let loose." Julian sighed from the stall, and Elspeth glanced over to see him leaning on the pitchfork, watching her. "Octavia has never been as serious as her name," he said. "And she likes dogs." "Does she?" Elspeth asked in delight. Plum was now darting forward at the horse's legs, pretending to attack before retreating just as swiftly. Octavia watched bemusedly before stamping her hoof at the next attack, sending the dog into spins of excitement. Elspeth knit her brow, concerned that the horse would accidentally stomp on the dog, but Julian reassured her. "You needn't worry. Octavia knows to be gentle.””

— Elizabeth Hoyt