Chapter 54
“Emery and Teddy aren’t arriving until tonight, right?” Maria asked, settling Serena on the couch as she helped Paisley change her into her riding outfit.
Paisley nodded. “Yeah, they should be here just before the party starts. Emery’s got a demanding client—a real VIP who throws money around.” Even Emery’s rebellious streak couldn't ignore that kind of cash flow. Originally, they were supposed to come with them, but the client delayed them.
Serena was soon in her helmet and protective gear. Paisley, though confident she could keep Serena safe, wasn’t taking any chances. Paisley herself threw her hair into a ponytail, pulled on comfortable clothes and her riding boots—it wasn’t a competition, just a casual ride.
From their suite, the stables seemed close, but a golf cart ride was needed. The stables were vast, nearly deserted except for staff and trainers. A staff member presented a magnificent white horse, but Paisley chose a smaller, gentler brown one. She wanted something calm for Serena.
Meanwhile, in the presidential suite, Dominick was in work mode. His focus: the evening cocktail party and a brief meeting with Nathaniel. He didn't want to deal with Paisley, or the possibility of her "boy toy" showing up. The thought of their little family reunion churned his stomach. He especially didn't want to figure out why she was even there.
Grayson, left to his own devices, read his book, occasionally admiring the view. He was still annoyed. "That woman saw me in the lobby and acted like I didn't exist," he thought. "All she cared about was Serena. Figures." His goodwill from last weekend evaporated, replaced by anger.
The doorbell rang. Marissa’s voice: “Dom, Sonny, it’s me.” Grayson’s eyes lit up. He tossed his book aside and raced to the door.
Marissa stood there, stunning in a white turtleneck, navy riding jacket, and pristine white riding pants tucked into knee-high boots. She smiled. “Want to go horseback riding, Sonny?” Her gaze flickered toward Dominick, who hadn't come to the door. Stepping inside, she stopped before him. “Let’s take Sonny riding, Dom.”
Dominick looked up from his work, then at Grayson’s eager face. “Do you want to go?” he asked.
Grayson nodded enthusiastically. “I do!”
Dominick smiled. “Alright then, let’s go.”