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“No, no,” I protested, waving her off as I staggered to my feet. “I’m fine, really. Just a little clumsy.”

Sofia didn’t look convinced, but I could see the disappointment flickering in her eyes at the thought of canceling our ride. With a surge of fake determination, I squared my shoulders and approached the mare again.

This time, I easily swung into the saddle, settling into the familiar leather with a contented sigh. Sofia’s eyes widened in surprise, and I offered her a sheepish grin.

“Beginner’s luck, I guess,” I said with a wink, relieved I managed to fool her so effortlessly.

As we set off down the winding trail, the world fell away, and for a few blissful hours, I lost myself in the simple joy of riding. The rhythmic sway of the horse’s gait, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and sea grass, and the warm sun on my face were a slice of peace amid the chaos that had become my life.

Sofia was in her element, her face aglow with happiness as she led us through the lush landscapes of the estate. We talked and laughed, sharing stories and secrets like old friends, and for a moment, I could forget the lies that had brought me here.

As we crested a hill, the vast ocean expanse stretched before us, sparkling like a million diamonds in the afternoon light. Sofia reined in her horse, her eyes shining with wonder.

“Isn’t it breathtaking?” she said, her voice hushed with reverence.

I nodded, my gaze drinking in the beauty of the scene. “I can hardly believe it’s real,” I said, emotion choking my voice.

Sofia turned to me, her expression raw and unguarded. “Eva, can I confide in you about something?” Her voice was hushed, almost lost in the ocean breeze.

“Of course,” I said, my heart clenching at the vulnerability in her eyes.

“It’s Allen, my boyfriend. Dante’s forbidden me from seeing him. He’s convinced Allen’s tangled up in some mob bullshit. That’s why he’s not here this weekend.” She met my gaze head-on. “Sometimes, I feel like I’m suffocating. Like my family’s expectations are a goddamn straightjacket, and I’ll never break free.”

I reached out, my hand covering hers, offering solace through touch. “Sofia, you’re a force of nature. So much passion and fire burns inside you. Don’t let anyone kill that flame, you hear me?”

She smiled, unshed tears glittering in her eyes. “Thank you, Eva. I’m so glad you’re here.”

Guilt churned in my gut as we guided our horses back to the mansion, warring with the warmth of Sofia’s friendship. She had bared her soul to me and entrusted me with her deepest fears and insecurities, and I was betraying that trust with every breath, exploiting her for intel on her brother’s operation.

We returned to the stables, and I dismounted from the horse with a heavy heart.

“You alright?” Sofia asked, her eyes concerned as she handed over the reins to a groom.

“Y-yeah,” I stammered, “Just a bit sore from the ride.” Liar, Natalia, liar.

Sofia laughed, “Join the club,” she said, rubbing her backside. “We should probably get back inside before Dante sends out a search party.” She winked at me before turning away. “I’m glad we did this today.”

“Me too,” I said genuinely.

Sofia and I entered the house’s foyer, and I forced a smile, determined not to let my inner turmoil show. “That was wonderful, Sofia. Thank you for sharing this with me.”

She beamed, her eyes sparkling with happiness. “I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Eva.” She paused, her head tilting to the side. “You know, I feel like I can be myself around you. It’s...refreshing.”

The words hit me hard, and I had to fight the urge to flinch. “I feel the same way,” I said, my voice soft and sincere. “You’re a wonderful person, Sofia. Never forget that.”

She smiled, reaching out to squeeze my hand, and I had to resist the overwhelming urge to pull away. “Well, I’m going to go freshen up for dinner. Feel free to explore the grounds a bit more if you’d like. I’ll see you in a bit!”

As she bounded up the stairs, I watched her go, my heart heavy with conflicting emotions. Part of me wanted to call out, confess it all, and beg for her forgiveness. But I knew I couldn’t. The mission came first, no matter the personal cost.

With a resigned sigh, I turned and headed outside, my feet carrying me towards the stables again. I needed a moment of solace to clear my head and regain my focus.

The familiar scent of horses enveloped me as I stepped into the cool, shadowy interior of the barn. I wandered the aisles, trailing my fingers along the smooth wood of the stalls, my gaze drawn to the powerful, graceful creatures within.

“Couldn’t stay away, babe?”

I whirled around, my heart drumming a staccato beat, only to find Dante leaning against the doorframe with a crooked smile. “Dante,” I breathed, cursing how my pulse quickened at seeing him. “I, uh, was just...”

“Enjoying the view?” he interrupted, pushing himself off the frame and strolling towards me. “Can’t say I blame you. These horses are something else, aren’t they?”