Chapter 43
Charlotte and Vivian weren’t close to begin with, so Vivian dropping the act and ditching the fake sweetness somehow felt less awkward and
more honest in a way.
Charlotte began walking her through the basics. “When you’re first learning to ride, posture is everything. Once you’re in the saddle, sit up straight.”
She handed Vivian the reins. “Here, try holding these.
“We’re going to start moving now, so don’t pull back too hard. Keep the tension light. That tells the horse it’s safe to walk.”
Vivian followed Charlotte’s instructions and held the reins gently. Snowbell began walking forward at an easy pace.
“She’s called Snowbell. She’s really gentle, so you don’t have to be afraid.”
“Is that so?” Vivian’s tone was flat, her words oddly pointed. 1
Charlotte didn’t notice anything strange. “Don’t worry, I’m right here. Nothing’s going to happen.”
Vivian smiled faintly. “How reassuring. Thanks… really.”
Charlotte continued patiently. “If you want her to pick up speed, use your lower legs to gently squeeze her sides. That creates pressure. It’s how she knows to go faster.
“The more pressure, the faster she’ll go. And when she starts moving, ease off so she knows to stay steady.”
She glanced up. “Got all that?”
“Yeah,” Vivian replied.
By now, the two of them had wandered far from the others.
Vivian glanced over her shoulder. Sean was nowhere in sight.
Charlotte was still focused, explaining riding techniques. She was completely unaware that Vivian’s mind was elsewhere.
Clutched tightly in Vivian’s right hand, still holding the reins, was a brooch. One she had deliberately removed and hidden in her palm.
Charlotte hadn’t noticed a thing.
“So, how do you feel?” Charlotte asked casually. “Feels kind of amazing, doesn’t it?”
Vivian responded half–heartedly, “Yeah, not bad.”
“The weather’s beautiful too.” Charlotte smiled, gazing out toward the setting sun.
It was late afternoon now. The sky was streaked with vivid oranges and reds, and a gentle breeze rolled across the fields.
Charlotte walked alongside the horse, taking in the peaceful scenery.
After a while, she said, “We’ve gone far enough. Let’s head back.”
Vivian’s lips curled into a cryptic smile.
Charlotte blinked, unsure what that smile meant.
And then, everything changed.
Out of nowhere, Snowbell reared and bolted forward in a wild sprint,
Vivian screamed in panic, barely holding onto the reins.
Help! Somebody help me!”
Charlotte froze, stunned.
What the hell just happened?
Snowbell was usually calm and obedient. This was completely out of character.
It had happened so fast, Charlotte hadn’t had time to grab the reins or stop the horse.
1/2
Chunter 43
+25 Bonus
Her mind blanked for a second, then kicked into gear.
She pulled out her phone and called the emergency rescue team for the stables.
By the time help arrived, Vivian had already been thrown from the saddle. Her body rolled across the grass before coming to a stop.
Snowbell was still tearing off into the distance, completely out of control.
The rescue team rushed to Vivian’s side and carefully lifted her onto a stretcher.
Sean and the others rushed over behind the rescue team, hurrying to check on the situation.
The moment he saw Vivian lying injured, Sean’s brows furrowed sharply. His expression turned grim as he cast a heavy glance at Charlotte.
Charlotte stood frozen, staring back at him in a daze, her eyes wide and confused.
