Chapter 26

When Thalia and Asher returned from their ride, they found only Grace waiting. The others–Charlotte, Sebastian, and Victoria Darwin–had presumably gone riding themselves.

“Oh, Thalia!” Grace’s smile was syrupy sweet. “You looked amazing riding. Would you teach me?”

Thalia hesitated.

Hadn’t Grace just been insisting that only Asher should teach her?

“There are professional instructors,” Thalia offered. “I could call one over.”

Grace’s lips formed a slight pout. “But instructors are so intimidating. I don’t know them, and they might

be harsh. You’re so kind–you wouldn’t scold me, would you?”

Thalia wasn’t comfortable with such forced familiarity from someone she barely knew.

She glanced at Asher, seeking his input.

He met her gaze, leaving the decision to her. “Lia, would you mind teaching her?”

He’d thrown the choice back to her.

Thalia considered carefully.

Grace was Asher’s sister, her future sister–in–law. Though their first meeting had been tense, Grace had apologized. Now she seemed friendly enough.

Being naturally generous, Thalia preferred not to assume ill intent.

“Alright,” she agreed, turning to Grace. “I can teach you some basics today, let you get a feel for it. Then you should take proper lessons.”

“Really?” Grace beamed. “Thank you, Thalia! You’re too kind.”

The excessive sweetness was almost cloying.

Thalia wondered if she’d been overthinking Grace’s earlier hostility.

“Of course,” she replied politely.

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Chapter 26

her

should call her “sister,” she

herself to use the

to accept that this woman would

thought of him with anyone else was unbearable.

doing this,

notably. “Mind Thalia’s instructions. Do exactly as

Grace’s smile was pure

me,” Thalia

Grace followed.

side,” Thalia instructed patiently. “Left foot in the

she

in proper riding attire, Grace’s athletic

holding the reins from the

feel?” she asked, looking up

Asher, Grace dropped

vanished, eyes

wasn’t bothered by the attitude

felt more natural

is crucial for beginners,” Thalía explained. “Sit straight in the

said,

forward, don’t pull back. Just release the tension

16-14

Chapter 26

instructions, and

Snow,” Thalia said warmly.

tone

Thalia assured

smile was enigmatic.

her sides. The more pressure, the faster she’ll

to release the pressure once she’s moving.”

enough?” Thalia

“Quite,” said Grace.

distance from their starting point.

back–Asher was out

Thalia continued explaining riding basics,

holding the reins, she concealed a brooch she’d

asked,

are

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