Chapter 303

"Let her ride." A flicker of surprise crossed Ethan Roscente's eyes. He hadn't expected Vivian Laurent to tame Stormchaser.

Felix Valdemar shook his head dramatically. "That wild stallion only obeys you. I bet Dr. Luna is face-first in the mud by now. Why else would she be silent for so long?"

Ethan's brow furrowed slightly.

He raised slender fingers to his lips and let out a sharp whistle.

Vivian was galloping across the field, her crimson riding coat billowing like flames. The horse's speed and power left her breathless.

Suddenly Stormchaser skidded to a halt and pivoted.

"Hey!" Vivian lurched forward, caught off guard. "What's going on?"

The stallion bolted back the way they'd come, faster than before.

Gripping the reins, Vivian guessed what was happening.

Stormchaser burst through the trees and headed straight for Ethan, nuzzling his arm affectionately.

Vivian narrowed her eyes. "Ethan Roscente!"

"He's spirited." Ethan stroked the horse's mane. "I worried you couldn't handle him."

With a fluid motion, Vivian dismounted, her red coat swirling around her.

"Your horse?"

"Yes."

Vivian scoffed. "Fine stallion. Pity about his owner. Why not come with me instead?"

Stormchaser flicked his tail and hid behind Ethan.

Ethan chuckled. "Go play with her."

The stallion obediently walked to Vivian and lowered his head submissively.

"You planned this?" Vivian glared at him.

"Didn't want you to fall."

Vivian covered the horse's ears. "Don't listen to him. Let's go!"

She swung onto the saddle, crimson fabric blazing. "Hyah!"

Horse and rider soon vanished from sight.

Ethan gazed after them, his lips curving unconsciously.

Felix gaped. "Ethan, are you possessed?"

He'd never seen that expression on his friend's face before.

Ethan's icy glare snapped back to him.

Felix exhaled in relief. "That's more like it."

But inwardly he grumbled: All warmth and smiles for Dr. Laurent, but freeze him out with a single look? The blatant favoritism was ridiculous!