I nod and then lead her to the barn. A new stall, freshly cleaned and bedded, has a nameplate that reads "Anita's Horse." Inside is a beautiful chestnut mare with a white blaze.
"She's gorgeous."
"She's a rescue. Needs someone patient and loving. Thought you two might be perfect for each other."
Anita moves to the stall, and the mare immediately comes to her, nuzzling her hand. "What's her name?"
"I thought you could name her. But if you want a suggestion, how about Hope?"
She turns to me.
"I love it!"
I kiss her deeply, right there in the barn, my heart full of gratitude for the scheming matchmakers that brought us together.