Chapter 26 When Thalia and Asher returned from their ride , they found only Grace waiting . The others Charlotte , Sebastian , and Victoria Darwin had presumably gone riding themselves . Oh , Thalia ! Graces smile was syrupy sweet . You looked amazing riding . Would you teach me ? Thalia hesitated . Hadnt Grace just been insisting that only Asher should teach her ? There are professional instructors , Thalia offered . I could call one over . Graces lips formed a slight pout . But instructors are so intimidating . I dont know them , and they might be harsh . Youre so kind you wouldnt scold me , would you ? Thalia wasnt comfortable with such forced familiarity from someone she barely knew . She glanced at Asher , seeking his input . He met her gaze , leaving the decision to her . Lia , would you mind teaching her? Hed thrown the choice back to her . Thalia considered carefully . Grace was Ashers sister , her future sister in law . Though their first meeting had been tense , Grace had apologized . Now she seemed friendly enough . Being naturally generous , Thalia preferred not to assume ill intent . Alright , she agreed , turning to Grace . I can teach you some basics today , let you get a feel for it . Then you should take proper lessons . Really ? Grace beamed . Thank you , Thalia ! Youre too kind . The excessive sweetness was almost cloying . Thalia wondered if shed been overthinking Graces earlier hostility . Of course , she replied politely . 16:14 Chapter 26 Grace studied her future sister in law . She should call her sister , she knew . But she couldnt bring herself to use the word . She refused to accept that this woman would marry Asher . The thought of him with anyone else was unbearable . Thank you for doing this , Lia , Asher said warmly . Turning to Grace , his expression cooled notably . Mind Thalias instructions . Do exactly as she says . And be careful . Yes , brother . Graces smile was pure innocence . Come with me , Thalia said , leading Snow . Grace followed . Mount from the left side , Thalia instructed patiently . Left foot in the stirrup , swing your right leg over . She supported Grace as she mounted . Careful now . Though not in proper riding attire , Graces athletic wear would suffice . Thalia led Snow at a walk , holding the reins from the ground . How does it feel ? she asked , looking up at Grace . Now facing away from Asher , Grace dropped her sweet act . Her smile vanished , eyes turning cold . Thalia wasnt bothered by the attitude shift . This felt more natural than forced friendliness . Posture is crucial for beginners , Thalía explained . Sit straight in the saddle . Try the reins , she said , handing them to Grace . To move forward , dont pull back . Just release the tension click si 16-14 Chapter 26 Grace followed the instructions , and Snow obligingly moved forward . Her name is Snow , Thalia said warmly . Shes very gentle youre quite safe . Am I ? Graces tone was odd . Im right here , Thalia assured her . Nothing will happen . Graces smile was enigmatic . How reassuring . Thalia continued : To increase speed , use leg pressure against her sides . The more pressure , the faster shell go . Remember to release the pressure once shes moving . Clear enough ? Thalia asked . Quite , said Grace . Theyd moved some distance from their starting point . Grace glanced back Asher was out of sight . As Thalia continued explaining riding basics , Grace wasnt listening . In her right hand , holding the reins , she concealed a brooch shed removed earlier . Thalia , unaware , asked , Ho are are you finding it ? Exhilarating , isnt it ? Mm , quite nice , Grace replied absently . Beautiful evening , Thalia remarked , admiring the sunset . The late afternoon light painted the sky in brilliant colors , a gentle breeze rustling the grass . Shall we head back ? Thalia suggested . Graces smile turned calculating . Thalia frowned , confused . Thats when it happened . Snow suddenly bolted , charging forward of Coal 16.14 Chapter 26 Grace clung to the reins , screaming . Help ! Someone help ! Thalia stood frozen in shock , How had this happened ? It was so sudden she hadnt had time to grab the reins . Her mind went blank momentarily . When she recovered , she immediately called the emergency response team . Grace was thrown , rolling across the grass . The horse continued its panicked run . The response team arrived quickly , loading Grace onto a stretcher . Asher and the others ran up behind them . Seeing Grace injured , Ashers expression darkened as he looked at Thalia . She stared back helplessly , eyes wide with confusion . In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. 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