Chapter 213

The scene unfolding was nothing short of perilous!

Nathaniel, who had been preparing for a race with Dominic and the others atop his stallion, whipped his head around at the sudden sound of hooves. His piercing gaze locked onto the breathtaking spectacle.

His pupils contracted instantly. Without hesitation, he spurred his prized thoroughbred toward the commotion.

Stardust reared up with an excited whinny before planting its hooves firmly on the ground. To everyone's astonishment, the majestic creature began galloping across the track with Evelyn riding effortlessly on its back. The temperamental horse showed no resistance, accepting its new rider completely.

Benjamin, who had been rushing to intervene, pulled his horse to an abrupt stop. His eyes widened in disbelief. "How is Evelyn riding Stardust so smoothly? That horse won't even let Amelia near it!"

Gabrielle's face twisted in frustration. She'd been anticipating Evelyn's humiliating fall, but instead found herself witnessing an impossible feat. "This can't be happening," she muttered through clenched teeth.

Sophia Bennett watched with stars in her eyes. "Evelyn's incredible! If she can tame Stardust this easily, Uncle Nathaniel doesn't stand a chance against her!"

Seeing Evelyn in complete control, Nathaniel's tense shoulders relaxed slightly. He eased his grip on the reins, allowing his horse to slow its pace. A rare glimmer of admiration shone in his narrowed eyes as he watched the fearless girl command the powerful stallion. "Is there anything she can't do?" he wondered silently.

"Stardust, steady now!" After several exhilarating laps, Evelyn gently pulled back on the reins. The obedient horse immediately transitioned to a comfortable trot.

Evelyn stroked the horse's glossy mane. "You must miss your owner terribly, don't you?"

Though horses couldn't speak, Stardust responded with soft nickers that seemed to confirm Evelyn's words.

"Evelyn! Evelyn!" Sophia called out as she maneuvered her horse alongside. "You're absolutely amazing! I never thought anyone could ride Stardust! My admiration for you grows by the minute!"

Evelyn chuckled and shook her head. "He's actually quite gentle - just fiercely loyal."

"That's because you're special! No one else has ever managed to ride him!" Sophia insisted.

Benjamin and Gabrielle finally caught up, their expressions a mix of awe and irritation.

Benjamin studied Evelyn with newfound respect. "I must admit, I'm impressed. How did you get my sister's horse to accept you so easily?"

Evelyn shrugged. "No special tricks. Just felt like we connected somehow."

Gabrielle couldn't hide her sneer. "Connected? What nonsense! A country girl like you has no business with such an elite thoroughbred. If Nathaniel hadn't brought you here, you'd never have gotten within ten feet of a horse like Stardust in your entire life!"

She forced a tight smile. "Since you're such an expert, why don't we race?"

Evelyn arched an eyebrow, her gaze dropping pointedly to Gabrielle's injured foot. "Are you sure you're up for it? Wouldn't want you blaming me if you aggravate your injury."

Gabrielle's smile turned brittle. "That was all just a misunderstanding, and I've already apologized. Must you keep bringing it up?"

The stark contrast between Gabrielle's private malice and public politeness almost made Evelyn feel sorry for the effort the woman put into her act.

Evelyn gave a small shrug. "Just teasing. I'm happy to race if you're feeling up to it."