Ambrose and Mal rounded the corner together, and Ophelia bounced on her heels when she saw Mal. Xander kissed Maeve’s hand, and Maeve gave him an appeasing smile.
“Eryx,” said her father. “Xander.”
“Ambrose,” they responded in unison.
“Are you about to go riding?” Asked Ophelia with a smile.
“Yes,” said Maeve.
“I don’t sink I’ve ever zeen you wear pants,” said Ophelia with a repressed giggle.
“I wear trousers all the time,” said Maeve.
Ophelia shrugged and looked over at Mal adoringly. Maeve and Abraxas exchanged a quick look of confusion.
“I would be honored if you would escort me around the estate,” said Xander. “I ride well.”
“Oh,” said Maeve. “Well, I-”
“She’d love to,” said Abraxas with a smile.
Maeve glanced at Mal, whose expression was casual.
“Wonderful,” said Xander happily.
Ophelia bounced in front of Mal, and Maeve felt her stomach burn.
“Would you care to escort me?” Asked Ophelia with a smile.
“I have business to discuss with The Premier and Abraxas,” said Mal sweetly. “Though I’m sure Xander’s company would love to accompany you.”
Ophelia’s face dropped as Eryx offered Ophelia his hand. He didn’t look too pleased. But Eryx had a perpetually stern look on his face.
He was dressed more casually than the last time she saw him. But still, the Aterna didn’t have the same sense of style that the Magicals on Earth did. There was nothing wordly about his or Xander’s attire.
The horses were brought up from the stables, and Xander extended his hand to Maeve.
“I can ride myself,” said Maeve.
She had no intention of getting on a horse with him.
He tried to hide his look of disappointment as Maeve mounted her own horse. They rode along silently, shortly behind Eryx and Ophelia. Maeve thought Xander wasn’t terrible company when he was quiet, but soon after this thought, he ruined her peaceful ride.
“May I speak candidly, Miss Sinclair?” He asked.
“Of course,” replied Maeve, bracing herself.
He looked out over the cliff side as they rode along the trail.
“I know you’ve only just turned twenty-two-”
Maeve cursed Abraxas for being so wicked and forcing this interaction. Xander continued.
“I understand it’s crucial to your family to maintain strong magical bloodlines,” said Xander. “And it’s crucial for mine to be reinstated.”
Maeve tensed up and stared straight ahead. He cleared his throat when she didn’t reply and sat up straight.
“You’re young, but-”
