After breakfast, Danielle took Niki out to the riding arena.
This was the largest equestrian center on the outskirts of Northridge, a favorite haunt of the city's elite and aristocrats.
Niki loved sports like this, though she'd always kept that passion to herself. In the past, she'd only watched Raffy ride, never daring to show her own interest. The Davidson family had raised her to be a proper young lady, believing girls shouldn't take part in such wild activities—it was simply improper. Almost all outdoor activities were reserved for Raffy.
But Danielle was no longer part of the Davidson family. All those rules and traditions they'd drilled into her? They meant nothing now.
Niki had come to the stables for the first time last week and had been absolutely thrilled. She'd picked it up quickly, too.
The trainer noticed Niki approaching and welcomed her over for practice.
He turned to Danielle. "Miss Crawford, you're welcome to choose a horse and take a few laps. The track's just been resurfaced."
Danielle nodded. "I'll watch Niki ride first."
She needed to be sure Niki was safe and comfortable in the saddle before she could relax.
Niki ducked into the locker room to change into her riding clothes. The outfit made her look even more adorable—so small and bright-eyed.
Danielle settled nearby, watching as Niki mounted her horse and took off. Every time Niki passed, she'd flash Danielle a grin and wave.
She was steady and learned fast—talented, well-rounded, and determined.
Danielle herself had once loved riding. Back before she married Alexander, she'd relished the freedom of galloping across open fields, wind in her hair and the scent of grass all around her. After the marriage, she'd gradually sacrificed everything for him and the Davidson family, losing pieces of herself along the way. It had been so long since she'd felt that sense of freedom.
Watching Niki ride, Danielle felt a familiar itch. Without another thought, she got up and changed into her own riding attire.
Stepping out of the changing room, she made her way to the stables to choose a horse.
"That's Hurricane—Northridge's reigning champion," one of the stable hands explained as she paused by a powerful black stallion. "He's wild, nearly impossible to break. His last owner left the circuit and, since then, no one's truly managed to tame him. With his talent, he could've competed nationally—even internationally. It's a shame, really. He just won't bond with anyone else."
"We've had a few experienced riders try their luck, but none could really sync with him."
"Honestly, unless you're an expert, I wouldn't risk it. Are you sure you want to try?" He looked at Danielle, doubtful—she was young and slender, hardly the image of someone who could handle a horse like Hurricane. He felt compelled to warn her.
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