ONWARD BACK TO THE HOLDING

ASTRID

I glared at the poor animal for a few seconds before sighing and reaching out to rub her neck. "Don't throw me off again," I whispered, and it neighed softly in response.

"Milady," Cayon began as he rode. He swung his leg over and jumped down from his horse.

"I deeply apologize for that," he said, "the mare is a young one, and she's just been back broken recently, but I guess it didn't work."

I gave him a smile and a small wave. "Don't worry about it."

I felt Magnus' fingers plucking something out of my hair, and I faced him just in time to see the amusement dancing in his eyes.

I narrowed my eyes in warning, and the half a smile on his lips immediately vanished. However, I could still sense his suppressed laughter.

"Would you want to ride my horse then, Milady?" The beta asked again, and I replied to him without looking away from Magnus.