Chapter 77

“Who is she? Beaumont’s calling her ‘mentor’?” whispers rippled through the guests. “Is she some heiress? What’s their relationship?”

Those who’d been at the stables knew Paisley Sutton, the equestrian champion. Even they were surprised to see Nathaniel, their old schoolmate, practically fawning over her. One muttered, “He’s serious about this… horse riding lessons? Seriously?”

Ignoring the buzz, Nathaniel strode towards Paisley. “Ms. Sutton! Why are you here, alone? Why didn’t you find me?”

A blush colored Paisley’s cheeks. Leaning in, she lowered her voice. “Let me be clear. I’m not your mentor. I haven’t the time to teach you. Find someone else.” She met his gaze. “And stop calling me ‘mentor’ in public. It’s embarrassing.”

Nathaniel, towering over her, smiled. “Don’t be cold-hearted. I’m serious! If this isn’t convincing, I’ll find another way to ‘host’ you.” His playful demeanor was surprisingly effortless.

Paisley felt a headache coming on. The amused glances from the crowd didn't help. “I said no,” she said flatly. “Good grief, this was supposed to be a business event!”

Across the room, Dominick watched, his knuckles white around his wine glass. Marissa caught the flash of amazement in his eyes when he saw Paisley.

Marissa chuckled to Alexis. “Looks like Nathaniel’s forgotten everyone else to talk to her.”

“Exactly,” Alexis agreed readily, fueled by bitterness over the horseback riding incident. “We’re all here, but we’re less important than a horse-riding champion.”

Alexis, in her expensive gown, felt a surge of irritation. Even Marissa, Dominick’s date, seemed overshadowed by Paisley in her simple, understated dress. Frustrated, Alexis snapped, “She’s just a horse rider! Any one of us could ruin her in Harrowfell.”

Chapter 78