With Shaxter

Styx pulled into the gravel drive leading to the Evergarden Stables. The morning was still young, and everything frozen into peaceful quietness. Silence only broken by the distant calls of birds and the crunch under the tires of his car.

 

The barista at the local coffeeshop had convinced him to try something new for once, something different than his usual boring espressos without milk or sugar. So, with a convoluted drink in hand that resembled more a dessert than coffee, he made his way to Shaxter’s stall.

 

The colt was calm, his ebony coat catching the first filtered rays of sunlight as he casually licked his salt block. The transition from the family’s private stables had gone smoother than expected. His trainer had recommended it, and although Styx had been a bit sceptical, it seemed to be going well for the horse.

 

Shax’s ears perked up when he noticed his owner approaching. He was excited, understandably so, as it usually meant treats and new snacks.

 

“Hello my sweet boy.”

 

Styx lifted his free hand to offer a pat, but Shax was already on a mission and didn’t seem that interested in his affection. The horse nudged against his coat, nosing through the pockets that too often hid slices of dried apple or precious sugar cubes. Finding nothing of interest, his attention shifted to Styx’s coffee. It did smell delightfully sugary, so he tried to lick it, to Styx’s horror.

 

“Oh, absolutely not!” Styx gasped, jerking the cup back with a laugh. “ I don’t want to imagine the vet bill for /that/.”

 

Shax huffed, offended, and pressed his nose into Styx’s chest with persistent nudges.

 

“Alright alright” he said, his voice softening. “Let me put my stuff down and I’ll prepare your breakfast.”

Done