Chapter 70

"Four years," Nathaniel began, his gaze sharp on David. "And it seems your life’s been…extraordinary. Just not involving me."

David wiped his sweating brow. "Sir, I… I prioritized Mr. Dominick. Ms. Wendy handled the champion’s assistant. I assumed Mr. Beaumont would be furious about Ms. Prescott's fall, but…" He trailed off, a dawning realization on his face. "Separate rooms! Of course! My mistake. I should have known." He glanced nervously at Paisley. "My fault, sir. I let Ms.…"

Paisley, stepping forward, offered a gentle smile. "Paisley Sutton."

David stammered, "Ms. Sutton and her family… were frightened."

"Frightened?" Paisley chuckled. "A slight misunderstanding with Mr. Vanderbilt. Nothing serious." She’d humored Marissa, nothing more.

Marissa, her moment of glory shattered, watched Nathaniel’s attention wholly focused on Paisley. He’d always been indifferent to her, even now.

Serena, spotting Nathaniel, stopped crying instantly. Tiny arms outstretched, she gurgled, "Hey, handsome! Cuddles, please!"

Nathaniel’s heart melted. He scooped her up. "What's your name, little one?"

"Serena Sutton," she chirped. "Call me Rena."

Nathaniel grinned. "Rena. Do me a favor? Ask your mom to take me as her apprentice."

Serena, arms around his neck, declared, "Okay! I like you! Leave it to me!"

Paisley rolled her eyes. This kid forgets her mother when a handsome face appears. "Rena, darling, want to keep riding?"

Serena shook her head. "Nope. Prince and princess with him!"

Nathaniel chuckled, carrying Serena off the field. Paisley followed, sighing, "Serena, stop this nonsense!"

"What's the big deal, Ms. Sutton? Rena’s practically my junior now," Nathaniel quipped. He turned, waving casually to Dominick. "Wait for me. We'll talk tonight."

He didn't notice Dominick’s stony face. Just classmates, he thought. Respect the mentor.

Dominick scoffed inwardly. Another man waltzes off with her daughter? And she follows? Remembering Serena’s tearful cry of "scary man," he sneered.

Grayson remained frozen, ignoring Marissa's calls. A storm of emotions raged within him. Paisley wasn’t lying. She's a champion rider. Larsen lost. He clenched his fists. I thought she was embarrassing. That I pushed Marissa… Remorse choked him.