Chapter 70 Manipulation

• It was a crisp morning in a private, secluded area of the Panda building. Xander led Sarah to the stables. “Today, I will teach you how to ride a horse,” he had told her before they made their way here.
• Sarah, who had begun to accept the reality of her new life, hesitated only for a moment before following him. Deep inside, she felt a strange feeling of dread and excitement.
• The stable was quiet and filled with the earthy scent of horses and hay. Xander mounted a strong, dark stallion after helping Sarah onto it first. As they rode together along a winding track, Sarah tried to relax against his chest, and he peppered her hair with kisses as they rode. The cool breeze brushed against her face, and for a brief moment, she allowed herself to enjoy the simple pleasure of riding.