Last Year of Seventeen

Chapter 11 - Butterflies

It's the Annual General Membership Meeting of the Liberty Polo Federation and the excitement has kept me up all night. Not because of the Membership Meeting but because of the Emperor's Cup which is also held on the same day. This is one of the few events that our family is required to attend that I actually enjoy. It's when I can display Philip in all his glory. We will be participating in the two main events which is Show Jumping and then at Polo.

This year is a bit more special though. This year, August will be watching and something within me stirred. After my brother left, no one else watched me compete. It's fine. I'm used to it now. My father is always out of the country and my mother is often out of herself. So now, with someone watching and much more since it's August, I'm feeling more riled up.

I got to Liberty Mead real early that I was there before my coach. I was already done schooling Philip when Coach Anthony came. He wasn't shocked to see me there first. He knows how passionate I am with riding. It is actually something I am much better at than my brother.

We did a few more preparations, groomed Philip and made sure he is well-conditioned for the competition. And Philip on the other hand, looks the proud stallion that he is. I swear he enjoys the spotlight better than I do.

Dove came a bit later. We're both competing in Show Jumping but we'll be teammates in Polo. What shocked me was the horse she was riding.

"You're riding Lancelot?"

Dove nodded in contempt. A mocking smirk on her face.

"You never ride Lancelot. At least not competitively." I said again.

"Well, we've had a lot of practice. Didn't we Lancy." She said cheekily addressing her horse who neighed as if in response. "Also, I think it'll be a great way to remind you what you won't have if you lose the bet."

How do I tell her I am no longer interested in getting her Akhal-Teke without raising suspicions that I have in fact already changed alliances? Simple. I don't.

So instead, I patted Lancelot's head and went out of their way.

By mid-morning, more guests had arrived. The Board of Directors were ushered to a different area. They had adult things to talk about like budget reports, the next year's goals, as well as the final review of those who are being considered as new members. I'll be tackling that in the future I think. A responsibility I will inherit after my father. But that won't be for a long time. For now, I'll just be enjoying the competition and the good wine.

This event is actually exclusive and for members only, unless someone can vouch for you. And that will be me for August's case.

I found her in a conversation with a Front Desk Clerk who was intently telling her she cannot go in because she's not a member.

"It's okay. She's with me." I butted in. The clerk took one look at me and immediately let August pass. Our family is one of the pioneering members of the association. I don't need any introduction.

August then squirmed beside me, head bowed and a little flushed. "You didn't tell me this was such an exclusive event."

She did wear a dress like I asked her to. I really thought she wouldn't listen but then I guess, I was very persistent. It was a really pretty dress too. A bit attention calling, with her choice of color and the high slit. But orange suits her, and that color does not really just suit everyone.

"It's a good thing Gwen lent me a dress last minute. She didn't like what I initially chose. Have you seen what the other girls are wearing?"

August has observed well. This event is also a way for young heirs to meet other heirs. It was only natural for them to dress their best. My parents used to pressure me to meet someone here. And meet girls I did, however none ever lasted. But August has nothing to worry about. With how she looks, she fits well right in. Even more beautiful than the others.