“Listen. I was thinking we could both go to your safe space this time. Dynamic activities help people know each other even better. I would like to explore more of your world.”
Weston frowned, confused. “I do not have a safe space.”
“You do.” Juliet responded. A few seconds of silence passed between them, and Juliet realized he hadn't the faintest clue about what she was talking about.
“I want to come riding with you today.” She spelled it out, her voice concise and direct.
Weston’s frown faded from his face, leaving it blank. “What?”
“I just thought it was about time.” Juliet replied. Weston remembered the day of their wedding. Juliet had mentioned that she knew how to ride horses. They had never revisited the subject since then, so it was a bit of a surprise for her to bring it up now.
“Are you—sure?” He asked.
“I am.” She replied. “And I know exactly which horse I intend to ride.”
Juliet watched a wide grin appear on his face.
“Of course.” He replied, now squeezing her hands. “We can always go riding after breakfast.”
Juliet nodded. “Fantastic. I shall get ready.”
The excitement of having something to do with her husband later in the day lingered in her. It was all she could think of when she was taking her bath and as she was getting ready. Even Estelle could tell something was going on because she would not stop smiling at the mirror when she was fixing her corset.
“Riding?” Estelle said when Juliet finished talking to her about it. “You haven't ridden in a long time. What if you fall?”
“Riding is like speaking, Estelle.” Juliet responded, putting on her arm gloves. “Just because you haven't spoken in a while doesn't mean you forget how to do it.”
“I see.” Estelle replied.
“And if it so happens that Idofall, I know Weston will be there to catch me.”
Estelle shared in her mistress's happiness. This was a brand new thing for her. Wherever it could go, she would be with her every step of the way.
“I better hurry down for breakfast. I do not want to upset anyone today. Weston has to meet with some of his friends, so he will not join us.” Juliet said, giving herself one last look in the mirror before heading out.
At the large table spread in the dining hall, Anne could tell she was excited too, but couldn't figure out why. Lady Beatrice, on the other hand, grew nauseated by her tiny smiles real quick.
“What is it that makes you so excited this morning?” She asked, watching Juliet bite into an apple.
“Nothing.” Juliet had replied briefly, but Beatrice knew too well that it wasn't nothing. She didn't push further, though. Instead, she moved the conversation away from her.
“My friend Abigail is celebrating her fifty-seventh anniversary. I shall be holding a ball for her honour.”
Juliet felt her heart clutch her chest.
“Here?” Anne asked.
“No. At the King's palace.” Beatrice responded, her voice laced with sheer sneer. “Of course, here.”
“I wish her a happy anniversary.” Juliet said, finding the words before they completely disappeared from her mouth. Beatrice turned to look at her, the gaze in her eyes piercing.
“I shall need Anne and you to be available as soon as possible so you can welcome guests. Will that be too inconvenient for you?” She asked.
Juliet swallowed. “Not at all, mother.”
“Great. Well, that is settled.” Beatrice said and continued with her food.
Juliet's mind became riddled with tumultuous thoughts. What trap has her mother-in-law set for her this time around? What unexpected surprises was she to expect? Which surprise guest was she going to spring on her? She turned to look at Anne, an inquiring expression on her face. Anne seemed to read her face and reply with a shrug.
