Silver Dreams

Chapter 6

***Warning: Chapter contains physical abuse and sexual harassment***

Last night

Bree's steps thudded softly against the dirt ground as she approached the stables, lantern in hand. A dimly lit interior greeted her when she opened the stable door. Torches flickered in the shadows, shedding a fiery glow upon slumbering horses. Bree walked to the far end and spotted a dark figure hunched in a stall.

"Lucas?" She called out.

The dark figure perked up, turning toward her voice.

Stepping into the light, he grinned. "Lovely night, Bree. What brings you here at this hour?"

"Good evening to you, too," she replied, matching his smile.

Bree had met Lucas seven years ago. Since then, she had always known him to be kind. Lucas accepted her without judgment, although Bree took months to trust him completely.

As they grew, their friendship remained unbreakable. Now, both mature adults, nothing much has changed except maybe the jealous glares Bree had earned from the females throughout their friendship.

She can't blame them, though. Lucas had grown into a striking male—light brown eyes, a straight nose, and bouncy auburn curls. His lips which always held a smile, had never failed at making the females swoon at his feet. His kindness and ease with horses only added to his allure.

She once asked him how he felt about all the attention he received while hanging out in a meadow. She had expected a smug response, but his reaction surprised her.

His face, up to his ears, turned beet red with embarrassment. He even refused to talk about it and failed to change the topic.

She could have teased him all day but decided not to. It was enough to make her laugh and enough to know she could use it as a weapon another time.

Bree began. "Sorry if I bothered you—"

"Not at all! I was just piling up hay," Lucas interrupted, leaning his rake against the wall. "So, what can I do for you?"

"I'm here to ask you for more firewood," Bree explained. "The main living room fireplace needs a refill."

"Perfect timing—I just chopped some," Lucas said. "Want me to send it now?"

"No, tomorrow afternoon will do,"

"Got it." Lucas nodded.

"Thank you. Well, I must go now. See you around, Lucas," Bree began to leave, but Lucas caught her hand, stopping her.

"Can't you stay for a bit?" Lucas playfully urged. "It's been ages since we've seen each other. One of these days, I might forget what your face looks like!"

Bree chuckled and groaned, "I wish I could, but unfortunately, I still have some work to do."

"Oof, still? Weren't you on day duty this month?"

Bree could only shrug in response.

"I won't keep you long then. See you around, Bree," he winked with a smirk.

Bree scoffed at Lucas. "Take care, Lucas," she replied and walked out of the stables.

Lucas waved goodbye as he pouted like a child. Bree chuckled.