Chapter 212

Sophia Bennett's brow furrowed. "But—"

Evelyn Whitmore was already leading the stallion out. "Come on. I'm ready to try."

Sophia's concern didn't waver. "Are you sure about this, Evelyn? Stardust is extremely temperamental!"

Evelyn flashed a confident smile. "No need to worry. I feel an instant connection with this one."

"Fine. But promise you'll be extra careful!"

"Absolutely," Evelyn assured.

Gabrielle Winslow trailed behind them, leading the horse while shooting daggers at Evelyn's back with her eyes.

'Connection? More like a death wish! That arrogant country bumpkin is going to eat dirt!'

Truthfully, Gabrielle's limp was completely fake—just part of her earlier act.

Benjamin Rivers came trotting over on his bay gelding. The moment he spotted the white stallion in Evelyn's grip, his face paled.

"You chose Stardust?"

'Stardust? What an unusual name for such a majestic creature,' Evelyn mused. She stroked the horse's silken mane. "Problem?"

Benjamin dismounted with exaggerated concern. "It's not about permission—it's about survival! Stardust only tolerates my sister. Anyone else gets thrown within seconds!"

Evelyn stiffened. 'His sister's horse?'

"Which sister?"

"The eldest. Father gifted her this foal for her third birthday. That crescent marking on its forehead inspired the name." Benjamin's voice grew somber. "After she disappeared... Stardust refused all other riders."

"Seriously, swap horses. One bad fall could paralyze someone your size!"

Evelyn studied the white stallion. Nothing about its demeanor matched their warnings. And that name... why did it tug at her memory?

"Stardust," she tested the name aloud.

The horse turned its head, studying her with intelligent eyes before nudging her shoulder affectionately.

Benjamin yanked Evelyn back in alarm. "See? It's getting agitated! That's how the attacks start!"

Unfazed, Evelyn reached out to stroke Stardust's muzzle, calming the animal instantly.

Gabrielle sidled up to Benjamin. "I warned her too. Some people just won't listen."

"This isn't stubbornness—it's suicide!" Benjamin hissed. "You've seen what Stardust can do!"

Gabrielle shrugged. "What more can we—"

A thunderous whinny cut her off. They whirled to see Evelyn already mounted, reins in hand. "Hyah!"

Stardust reared violently, front hooves slicing air. Only Evelyn's iron grip kept her seated as the stallion bucked wildly.