Ani

When she had gotten into her saddle and issued the simple command for her horse to proceed forward, she suddenly was met with complete surprise, the horse refusing to take one step. She slid slowly from her saddle and took hold of the reins— come on, come on, as she patted and caressed his forehead. I looked into her face; focused, steady, calm, controlling, and all the while speaking reassuringly.

My heart pounded. But nonetheless I could not resist the temptation to proceed, reaching out my hand therefore to the iron latch again and pressing with only moderate force, spontaneously gasping in surprise, Ah, as the door slightly opened. Sheepishly, I moved to the inside, hearing the iron latch click behind me, for a moment losing my breath. With quickened pace I hastened back to it, fearful I had gotten locked in.

Why have I come upon this wondrous creature, this young woman of mesmerizing beauty, Dear Lord, and why in the name of sensible logic is she here, and why has the family hidden her from public view for some strange purpose?