Chapter 60
At first, the onlookers were surprised that Dominick had stepped forward, taken hold of the foolish woman’s reins, and even agreed to let her stay. But as they listened, it became clear that he simply thought she was being overly confident.
From the woman’s words, it seemed she knew Dominick. But to the crowd, it didn’t matter. Many people claimed to know Dominick, yet what truly mattered was whether he acknowledged her in return.
Karissa, worried that Paisley and Dominick’s conversation might reveal too much about their connection, quickly rode closer. “Dom, don’t worry, Marissa said gently, “I know what I’m doing. I won’t let this lady get hurt. If she wants to compete. I’ll grant her wish.”
With Marissa’s assurance of safety and Paisley’s determined expression, Dominick finally relented. He thought, ‘Fine. Paisley. If you want to compete, then compete. Maybe losing will teach you a lesson about your limits. He stepped back, his face still cold, and glanced at Marissa “Be careful”
Marissa gave him a sweet smile. “Dom, you don’t need to worry about me. Then, she turned to Paisley, raising an eyebrow with a smug look in her eyes that only Paisley could understand. “Let’s start here. One lap around the field. Whoever’s faster wins. Sound good!”
Paisley met Marissa’s gaze head–on “Fine”
The two lined up at the starting point, ready to begin. Nearby, Serena, cradled in Mania’s arms, watched her mother intently. Using all her strength Serena shouted, “Go, Mommy! Mommy, you’re the best. Mommy, I love you”
The sound of her daughter’s cheers warmed Paisley’s heart. Seeing this, Marissa turned expectantly toward Grayson.
Receiving Marissa’s silent cue, Grayson glanced at Paisley. When he noticed Paisley didn’t even spare him a look, irritation flared, and he shouted, “Go, Marissa! Marissa, you’re the best. I love you, Marissa, I love you so much. I love you more than anything in the world”
Marissa’s goal was achieved. She glanced at Paisley out of the corner of her eye, smug satisfaction evident in her expression. She thought mockingly. How does that feel. Paisley? It hurts, doesn’t it? The child you gave everything to bring into this world only has eyes for me!
The two kids seemed to be in a battle of their own. Hearing Grayson’s louder cheers, Serena refused to be outdone and shouted even louder. And so, amid the fervent shouts of encouragement from the two children, the competition officially began.
Alexis stepped forward confidently, taking on the role of referee. She shot Paisley a disdainful glare before raising her hand high. “Ready. Co
As Alexis‘ hand came down, the two horses bolted forward. Just as expected, Marissa took an early lead, galloping ahead and leaving Paisley far behind
Alexis let out a mocking laugh. “Forget Marissa’s riding skills for a second–just look at that horse of hers. It’s leagues better than whatever that fool’s riding-
Marisa’s horse had been personally selected by Dominick. It was a high–quality steed in every sense, excelling in both speed and temperament On the other hand, Paisley’s horse was smaller in stature and frustratingly sluggish at the star.
While Marissa charged ahead at full speed, she couldn’t resist glancing back at Paisley. Seeing her struggling to keep up on the small brown horse, Marissa burst out laughing inwardly, ‘Paisley, you’ve got no one to blame but yourself for this:
Ahead was Marissa’s scornful provocation, and behind Paisley was the sneering laughter of the wealthy heirs and elites watching the race. Despite falling so far behind. Paisley didn’t seem the least bit flustered.
Paisley held the reins in one hand and gently patted her horse’s neck with the other. “Alright, little guy, it’s your time to shine.”
With a squeeze of her legs, the once–sluggish brown horse let out a sharp
a sharp whinny and shot forward like an arrow fired from a bow.
Initially, Marissa hadn’t taken the race seriously at all. The only reason she had agreed was to humiliate Paisley. But then something unexpected happened the sound of hoofbeats grew louder and closer, breaking her composure. For a moment, she froze, realizing something wasn’t right.
Frowning in confusion, Marissa glanced over her shoulder, only to be stunned by the sight of Paisley rapidly catching up. It didn’t seem possible.
Fin and the realization sent a jolt of panic through Marissa Before she could react, she watched helplessly as Paisley surged past her in a blur.
