Chapter 458
Nola watched as the three kids took the bait, a smirk flickering at the corner of her mouth. She approached them, feigning concern, and said, “Remember, safety first. Put on your gear before riding. It’s all fun and games until someone falls off p>
She signaled the servants to help the trio into their riding gear, then turned to address the maid, “Is everything set up as I instructed?” “Yes, but miss, isn’t this a bit dangerous? Could someone get hurt?” the maid responded nervously.
Nola’s brow furrowed, “Any trouble caused isn’t yours to worry about, so keep it shut p>
“But… what if something goes wrong? Our horses could get hurt too the maid protested.
“Enough! They’re just animals. If they die, they die! Say another word, and I’ll cut your tongue out!” Nola snapped.
Terrified, the maid clamped her mouth shut, not daring to speak further.
Soon, the kids were all geared up and ready. Nola, playing the part of a caring big sister, helped them onto their horses and even assigned a few men on tall, strong horses to escort them.
The ponies led the way, with the protective horses flanking them. As they started, everything seemed normal. However, the horse assigned to protect Emmett, named White, suddenly opened its eyes wide. It reared, displaying a red flash as if it were a snake’s tongue.
In the next moment, a large black horse neighed and charged towards Emmett. The rider, sensing danger, shouted in alarm, but the black horse ignored him, throwing him off its back with a powerful buck. Mad with panic, it charged straight for the pony Emmett was on. The pony, terrified, dashed forward, nearly throwing Emmett off.
Emmett, frightened, began to cry, “Brother, brother p>
Evan’s brow furrowed, “So, the wicked witch begins her play. Good, I’ve been waiting for this p>
“White!” Evan called out. White, as if understanding, lunged at the black horse! Just as it was about to collide with Emmett, the black horse fell to the ground with a thud, motionless after a few twitches.
Seizing the moment, Evan intercepted White, and Elliot was already there, quickly lifting Emmett off the pony. Clutching Elliot’s neck, Emmett sobbed, “Brother, brother, sob sob p>
“It’s okay, I’m here. Don’t be afraid,” Elliot comforted.
Still atop his horse, Evan looked at the tearful Emmett with heartache, “Brother, take Emmett out of here. White will protect you. I’m going to make them pay for scaring Emmett p>
Elliot frowned, “This must be Nola’s doing, aiming to use these grown horses to hurt us. No doubt she’s tampered with these few horses in the stable. Be careful p>
“I know! Emmett, don’t cry. Wait for me, I’ll make things right!” Evan reassured.
No sooner had Evan spoken, another tall horse charged at them. With a fierce look, Evan leapt onto its back, hugging its mane tightly as he spurred it away.
Emmett, still frightened, whispered, “Evan, Evan p>
Elliot comforted him, “Don’t worry. We’ve faced wild beasts in the forest and came out fine. These mad horses are nothing p>
As Elliot finished, White climbed onto Emmett’s shoulder. Elliot softly said to White, “White, thanks for saving Emmett. You’ll get an extra treat tonight p>
White flicked its red tongue at Elliot, settling on Emmett’s shoulder, their little guardian.