Chapter 225: Silent Rivalry

Horace’s POV:

I was pleased with my assistant’s plan and immediately gave the order, “Alright, let’s do it that way.”

“I’ll send people over tonight to set it up. Tomorrow, I’ll make sure to give you a big surprise,” he promised confidently.

I nodded and reminded him, “Make sure it’s done quietly. No one should suspect anything.”

“Rest assured, Alpha, I’ll handle it.” After he finished speaking, I dismissed him. I stubbed out the cigarette in my hand, feeling a flicker of hope rise within me after taking Hayley from Benjamin.

The next day, I woke up and was startled by the unfamiliar surroundings. Slowly coming to my senses, I remembered where I was. After freshening up, I took my makeup bag and applied a modest amount of makeup. Once I had returned to my usual, less glamorous look, I was satisfied and walked out of the room.

Benjamin and I were staying in guest rooms on the third floor. We both came out of our rooms almost simultaneously. Our eyes met, and Benjamin flashed a smile. “Good morning!”

“Good morning,” I replied, hurrying over to him at Hera’s impatient urging. “Did you sleep well? Is everything alright?”

Benjamin looked at me and answered, “Yeah, it was fine.” Hearing that, my worries faded instantly. “Good, let’s go downstairs.”

After breakfast, we all headed to the stables. It was a private equestrian facility that Johnny had purchased years ago. He owned several fine horses, and they were always well cared for. The stables were large, surrounding a small hill, and it was the perfect place for a ride.

Upon arriving, I headed straight to the changing room to put on my riding attire. When I looked in the mirror, the riding outfit made me stand out. Paired with boots, I looked every bit the skilled equestrian, and I was pleased with how I looked before going to find Benjamin.

“That outfit looks great,” Benjamin said, offering a sincere compliment.

I smiled and said, “You should change too. Let’s go ride soon.” Seeing my enthusiasm, Benjamin went off to change as well.

Benjamin’s POV:

I came out of the changing room, only to run straight into Horace. We locked eyes. There was an unmistakable tension between us, a silent competition. I had noticed the subtle animosity in Horace since yesterday, and even my wolf had warned me to be cautious around this man. At first, I hadn’t thought much of it, but now, looking into his eyes, I understood.

“Mr. Southwell, your riding outfit looks good, but I wonder how your riding skills are?” Horace posed the question, his tone laced with a challenge.

I had received some equestrian training in the past, but it had been more of a hobby, and I didn’t ride much anymore. “Not bad. I can manage,” I replied casually.

Horace smiled and said, “This horse is wild and difficult to control. If your skills aren’t up to par, an accident might happen.” I understood his underlying message but didn’t take the bait. I responded coolly, “See you on the field, Mr. Boyd.” With that, I turned and walked away to find Hayley.

Hayley’s POV:

When Benjamin emerged in his riding gear, leading a magnificent horse, I couldn’t help but stare for a moment, completely captivated. Benjamin’s looks and physique were simply stunning. His charisma was evident in his riding outfit, perfectly capturing the essence of a confident, skilled rider.

“Benjamin, do you know how good you look in that outfit?” I exclaimed in genuine admiration. His looks and presence were so striking that if he ever entered the entertainment industry, he’d undoubtedly rise to stardom, surrounded by thousands of adoring fans.

Benjamin smiled slightly and looked at me. “I’m glad you like it.” His words sounded strangely ambiguous. Recently, his attitude toward me had been a little odd. I didn’t dwell on it and said, “Let’s head out.”

Benjamin and I each led our own horses to the stables. I saw Johnny and Horace already mounted. “Ben, let’s race around the hill a couple of times,” Johnny called out.

“Sure,” Benjamin agreed, then helped me onto my horse before mounting his own. With the reins in hand, we all urged our horses into a gallop.

It had been a long time since I last rode, so I kept my pace slow. Before long, they were far ahead of me. I wasn’t in a rush, so I gradually rode to catch up. Not far ahead, I could hear their conversation.

“Mr. Southwell, your riding skills aren’t bad,” Horace said, riding alongside Benjamin.

Benjamin replied, “Your skills are good too, but your horse seems to be underperforming.” With that, Benjamin urged his horse faster, and Horace glanced ahead at the hill and followed suit. Soon, they were out of sight.

Since I wasn’t particularly interested in racing, I decided to find a shady spot to rest and wait for them to return. But just as I was settling in, my horse suddenly bolted forward without warning, charging ahead at full speed!