[Gift] 1.8 Watchful Eyes - Alistair and Satin

The long anticipated moment had arrived as Alistair took a deep breath from atop Satin as he awaited being called forward. He was up next and now it was merely minutes until he was to perform. His memory wouldn’t let him down though, he had the pattern burned into his mind. For now Satin was relaxed despite his probably still tense posture and hands. He made sure to remain gentle with her face but couldn’t help the worries that itched at his mind at how well he’d be riding as soon as he entered.

Then it happened, his name was called and he was moving towards the entrance. He passed the fencing at a trot and proceeded into the first movement of his test. All eyes were on him now, watching him intently but most importantly were the judge’s. He made his way through the patterns, realizing as he was guiding Satin into a canter that he wasn’t sure if he had picked up the right lead in time. Swallowing he tried to stay calm, grip tight on the reins as he kept focused on producing as perfect and effortless looking of a circle as he could.

The whispers all around him were distracting and he couldn’t stop thinking about how many people were watching him. He nearly missed returning to a trot but felt like he pulled it off in time. As they reached a walk he took in a deep breath and released it, forcing himself to pull it together. Soon they returned to a trot and he carefully maneuvered the mare through another circle before moving back into the canter. Satin felt smooth beneath him, the mare had always been surprisingly fine with crowds which he was eternally thankful for. Having done the patterns so many times she flew through them with ease, making Alistair wish he had her confidence.

Before he knew it they were back to a trot and returning to the centerline. As he stared ahead he saw the judge’s eyes intently watching him. He forgot to breathe as they stopped and he saluted. It felt like time dragged on for far too long before the dismissal came from the judge and he was able to finally leave the arena. He didn’t suck in a breath until he was heading to the exit.

Harry was awaiting him and as he finally dismounted his legs felt like his bones had liquified. He was shaky and leaned against Satin’s shoulder on the opposite side from Harry as they walked back to the stall. If the mare was bothered she thankfully didn’t show it. While the stable was noisy with activity Alistair was grateful to get some space away from everyone inside. Harry managed Satin while Alistair focused on his breathing and took his coat off. 

They would fetch the feedback and results in a little while but for now he needed to come down from it all. He watched silently as Harry managed untacking and care for Satin, only stepping in to help with some quick brushing once he felt ready. The simple movements helped further settle him and finally as they wrapped up he felt stable once more. Satin meanwhile was happily munching on something Harry had provided her and seemed completely unbothered by their show.

Harry noticed the shift in Alistair and smiled warmly as he gently took hold of his hand behind the stall door. “Feeling better?” He asked, watching as the doctor nodded. “You were excellent for your first time, I’m incredibly proud of you, love.”

“Thank you, I didn’t realize how much that was going to unsettle me. I’ve had to perform in front of others before but it was never like this.” Alistair took in another deep breath and let it out steadily. “I think it’ll take some getting used to such a crowd but… I don’t think I’d mind continuing some of this. I… doubt I’d get to your level but I must admit I’m enjoying this.”

“You have no idea how happy that makes me to hear.” Harry’s smile was like sunshine to Alistair and he had to resist the urge to hug him at that moment. They were still very much in public and men did not do that. “We’ll continue working on your form and control but for your first show I think we’ll need to find an appropriate way to celebrate.” He grinned, his fangs just barely peeking out this time.

Alistair smiled too, his own equally barely visible. “I’ll be looking forward to it.” He playfully responded back. Harry took the grooming supplied and let Alistair stay in the stall for a moment more to finish pulling himself together. He took the time to gently pet over Satin’s coat and give her another hug. “Thank you pretty girl, you did so well.” He murmured against her neck. The mare swung her head around and nuzzled against him best she could, giving him a soft snort and nicker.

When Harry returned Alistair joined him to finish preparing dinner for Satin and Daemon. Afterwards they would pick up the results and feedback on Alistair’s performance and go over it during their own meal. While the butterflies still fluttered in the doctor’s stomach, he also felt like a huge weight had been lifted now that the show was finally over.