Page 140 of The Lost Ones

I can’t wait to ride him. I watch enviously as the others swing up into their saddles and walk them through to the indoor school and moving apart so they can each work on the tasks Rupert instructed them too.

I’m more than happy that by the end of lesson not only have I learnt how to put tack on Dave but I can also successfully trot without sliding off. Rupert pushed us hard and non-stop for a while. By the time I finally have Dave brushed down and in his stall munching hay, I’m exhausted but happy and my legs are aching. There’s no doubt that come tomorrow I’m going to be walking like John Wayne.

There’s no rest for the wicked though, we meet the others outside the stable block.

“You guys suck.” I grumble and they look at me in confusion before looking at the rest of us who have just had our first riding lesson and burst out laughing.

“Hey, don’t think we’ve gotten away scot-free,” Levi chuckles, “I may know how to ride but I haven’t done it for a while. I swear you use muscles for riding that you don’t use for anything else.” He winces.

“Not going to lie that sort of makes me feel better.” I grin making them chuckle.

“So what’s next?” Kyle asks curiously.

“Yeah because I know for a fact we don’t get to relax.” Jax chuckles.

We start walking back towards our dorm rooms.

“Guys, to the main hall next to the dining room. There’s an emergency assembly being called.” Rupert calls out as he rushes past and we follow.

“I wonder what this is about?” Damon ponders and I shrug.

I’ve never been in the grand hall next to the dining room but the cavernous space does not disappoint. We all quickly take our seats among the rest of the students. It looks like the whole school is here and after a few stragglers arrive, the large wooden doors thump shut effectively making the muttering students settle and quieten down.

The Director steps onto the stage a sombre look on her face and her features pulled tight.

My stomach clenches with dread.

“I have some disturbing news. It appears that one of our most promising Centres, Rebecca and her Bonded mates, Wes, Robert, Tate and Clive, have all gone missing and there appears to have been a struggle in their rooms.”

The students start to mutter as several of them turn accusing eyes in our direction.

“Surely they can’t think that we’ve got something to do with this?” I ask astonished at the animosity being thrown our way.

“Clearly they do. Fucking idiots.” Levi growls, it being echoed by several of the others.

“Settle!” The Director calls, “There is no need to panic. Our best are investigating and I’m sure they will all be safely home soon.” She smiles reassuringly but it doesn’t reach her eyes.

Glancing around the instructors, I catch the sharp look that our instructor from our Centre lesson gives her. I am willing to bet that she justsaid something untrue. Judging from the look on the guy's face though he can’t tell which bit was untrue.

“As soon as we have more information we will let you know. I am asking you all for any information that you feel relevant. Please come to my office and let me know. You are dismissed.” She finishes abruptly and walks off the stage and straight out the door.

The hall is silent and somewhat shocked as we try to absorb what just happened.

“I suggest that you all leave before they start pointing fingers and this turns into a brawl.” Cole says quietly from behind us.

I turn to look at him incredulously.

“When the fuck did you get there?” I ask. This is the second time he’s suddenly appeared and I haven’t even noticed.

He just smirks and tilts his head towards the door. We all get up and quickly make our way out the door. When we get out into the hall I turn to Cole.

“You coming still?” I ask.

“I may as well. It looks like we’re going to need all the practice we can get if we aren’t as safe here as they like to make out.” Something crosses through his eyes but is gone before I can pin down exactly what emotion it is.

“I think you’re most probably right.” Dash sighs, “Me and Mav are going to do some research. Family meeting in Sage’s room in a couple of hours and we’ll let you know what we’ve found.” Dash says and I grin.

“I like the term family meetings.” I praise making him blush slightly and Erin kiss him.