Chapter 26 : Dangerous Rides - 1 Chapter 26 : Dangerous Rides (Olivia's POV ) The wind whipped through my hair as Moonbeam and I completed our second lap around the sprawling grounds of Crescent Moon Stables . Connor rode beside me on his powerful bay stallion , his posture relaxed yet commanding . The afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the landscape , highlighting the lush green fields that stretched as far as the eye could see . As we slowed our horses to a walk and approached the starting point , I noticed that Lily , Ethan Quinn , and Rebecca were nowhere to be seen . They had likely ventured deeper into the property , enjoying their own rides across the vast terrain . Only Vanessa Reed remained at the starting area , her violet eyes tracking our approach with unsettling intensity . She wore a casual outfit - fitted jeans and a light purple top that complemented her eyes - rather than proper riding attire . The moment we dismounted , Vanessa rushed forward , her face transforming into a sweet smile that didn't quite reach her eyes . " Wow , Sister Winters , you look so magnificent when riding ," she gushed , her voice dripping with honey . " Could I learn horseback riding from you ? " I blinked in surprise . Just moments ago , I had overheard her coquettishly insisting that only her foster brother Connor could teach her to ride . This sudden change in preference caught me completely off guard . " There's a professional riding instructor nearby ," I offered politely , gesturing toward the main stable building . " I can call them over to teach you . " Vanessa's perfectly glossed lips formed a practiced pout , her expression shifting to one of spoiled reluctance . " But the instructor would pressure me , and I don't know them . I'm afraid they'll scold me . " She batted her eyelashes . " You're so nice , Sister Winters , you surely won't scold me , right ? " Her coquettish tone felt inappropriate coming from someone who was practically a stranger . I instinctively turned toward Connor , seeking his guidance in this awkward 1/3 Chapter 26 Dangerous Ri situation . +6 Points By some coincidence , Connor glanced back at me at the exact same moment . His ice - blue eyes met mine , and I saw a flicker of something unreadable pass through them before he gently passed the decision back to me . " Livvy , would you like to teach her ? " he asked , his deep voice neutral . I hesitated , weighing my options carefully . Vanessa was Connor's foster sister , which meant she would eventually become my pack sister once Connor and I completed our mating bond . Although our first meeting had been decidedly frosty , she had apologized for her behavior , and now appeared genuinely amiable . My naturally kind disposition resisted the urge to overthink the situation or assume malice from another she - wolf . Perhaps I had been too quick to judge her before . " Alright , " I finally nodded . " I can teach you some basics today , help you get a feel for it . Later , your brother can enroll you in proper lessons . " Vanessa's smile brightened instantly , her violet eyes sparkling with what appeared to be genuine delight . " Really ? Thank you , Sister Winters . " Her honeyed tone made me momentarily doubt my previous suspicions . Maybe I had been too wary of the younger wolf . Perhaps she truly wanted to make amends and build a relationship with her future sister - in - law . Connor stepped closer to me , his tall frame casting a shadow over mine . " Thank you , Livvy , " he said softly, his ice - blue eyes warming slightly as they met mine . Then his gaze shifted to his foster sister , and the temperature seemed to drop several degrees . His voice took on a cold , commanding tone that carried the unmistakable authority of an Alpha . " Learn well from her and listen to what she says . Do whatever she tells you . careful . " Be " I know , brother , " Vanessa replied with a sugary , obedient smile that didn't quite reach her eyes . I led Moonbeam a few steps away and beckoned to Vanessa . " Come with me . " Vanessa followed closely , her movements almost predatory despite her attempt to 3 2/3 < Chapter 26 Dangerous Ri +5 Points appear casual . There was something in her gait that reminded me of a wolf stalking its prey , though I quickly dismissed the thought as paranoia . " Get on the horse first , " I instructed patiently , guiding her to Moonbeam's left side . " Mount from the left , step into the stirrup with your left foot , then swing your right leg over . " While Vanessa wasn't dressed in proper equestrian attire , her sporty outfit was serviceable enough for a basic lesson . I offered my hand for support , and with my steady guidance , she mounted safely . Standing beside the horse , I gently took hold of Moonbeam's bridle and began leading her into a slow walk . The docile white mare moved calmly , her steps unhurried and smooth . " Are you getting used to it ? " I called up to Vanessa . The moment we moved out of Connor's line of sight , Vanessa's sweet facade vanished like morning mist under a hot sun . Her violet eyes grew cold as she responded flatly , " Yeah , it's fine . " み Comments Watch Ads ( 0/20 ) > Vote 259