The Chase And The New Ally 2

The wind had settled, but Eugene's heart was still racing as they continued through the forest, Maximus trotting confidently beneath them. The adrenaline from their escape was beginning to fade, and in its place, an awkward silence settled between him and Rapunzel.

Eugene adjusted his grip around her waist, suddenly very aware of how close they were. Maximus, sensing the tension, smirked inwardly and flicked his ears.

Pascal, meanwhile, perched on Rapunzel's shoulder, ever the observer. The little chameleon glanced between the two humans, then rolled his eyes. Eugene's grip on Rapunzel was perhaps a little too careful, his voice a little too neutral when he asked, "So… where exactly do we plan on stopping?"

Rapunzel pointed ahead. "There's a clearing just past those trees. We can rest there."

Maximus obeyed her command without hesitation, much to Eugene's growing annoyance. Not only had his archnemesis decided to let them ride him, but he was also listening to Rapunzel as if she were his queen.

Eugene muttered under his breath, "Unbelievable."

Maximus flicked his tail hard, smacking Eugene square in the face.

Rapunzel giggled. "Play nice, you two."

With a huff, Maximus slowed as they reached the clearing, a small meadow bathed in moonlight. The stars shimmered above, casting a soft glow over the grass. It was quiet here, distant from the chase they had narrowly escaped.

Rapunzel slid off first, stretching her arms. Eugene hesitated before dismounting, grumbling as his feet hit the ground. "That's the last time I ride him."

Maximus snorted, shaking his mane smugly.

Pascal, of course, wasn't done stirring trouble. He leaped from Rapunzel's shoulder onto Eugene's, his tiny hands gripping the thief's ear. Then, with a devilish grin, he flicked his tail toward Rapunzel.

Eugene sighed. "Yes, I know. She's wonderful, the hair is magic, and I'm in trouble."

Pascal nodded, satisfied.

Rapunzel, oblivious to the silent exchange, turned to Maximus with an eager smile. "You were amazing back there. I didn't know horses could be that fast."

Maximus straightened proudly, lifting his head high. If he could talk, he'd probably be saying: Why, thank you, Princess.

Eugene crossed his arms. "Yeah, yeah. A real hero."

Maximus shot him a don't be jealous look, which only made Pascal snicker.

Rapunzel reached out, gently stroking Maximus's mane. "You know… you're kind of perfect. I think you and I are going to be great friends."

Maximus melted. The fierce, law-enforcing warhorse completely melted. His big brown eyes softened, and he let out a happy sigh as he nuzzled Rapunzel's hand.

Eugene gawked. "Oh, come on. That's not fair."

Pascal fell over laughing.

Rapunzel giggled, stepping back to look at the three of them. "Well, I'd say we make a pretty great team."

Eugene hesitated. He had spent years avoiding attachments, keeping people at a distance. But as he looked at Rapunzel, her golden hair shimmering under the stars, her eyes filled with excitement, he realized something dangerous.

He didn't want to keep his distance anymore.

And that was terrifying.

Maximus, who had been watching Eugene closely, suddenly understood. The way the thief's gaze softened, the way his posture shifted when Rapunzel laughed, it all clicked.

The horse's lips curled into a smirk.

Eugene caught the expression and scowled. "No. Whatever you're thinking, no."

Maximus simply neighed, his amusement evident.

Pascal, in agreement, gave Eugene another knowing glance.

Rapunzel, meanwhile, was completely unaware of the silent war being waged between them. She turned to Eugene with a hopeful look. "So… lanterns?"

Eugene exhaled, shaking his head. "Yeah, Blondie. Lanterns."

Maximus neighed excitedly, already walking ahead as if he had decided he was coming with them.

Eugene groaned. "I hate this horse."

Maximus smirked again.

Pascal just gave Eugene a slow, smug nod, as if to say Welcome to the club, buddy.

Rapunzel, finally realizing Maximus had fully joined them, beamed. "Alright! Let's go!"

As they disappeared into the night, heading toward the kingdom, Maximus found himself glancing at Eugene once more. He wasn't just keeping an eye on the thief anymore.

No… he was watching Rapunzel's thief.

And he had plans for him.