The Art of turning heart

12 |

A few days later, I found myself wandering through the fields, my bare feet brushing against the cool grass. It was a comforting escape, a small piece of nostalgia from my childhood that allowed me to clear my mind. I knew my mother would be furious if she knew, but in that moment, I didn't care.

Lost in my thoughts, I heard a familiar voice call out to me. It was unmistakable: Edward's voice. My heart gave an unexpected leap. I looked up to see him approaching at a gallop on his horse, his figure framed by the golden light of the setting sun. His dark hair was tousled by the wind, and his expression was a mixture of amusement and warmth.

I turned around slowly, adopting an air of nonchalance. "Lord Hawthorne," I greeted, trying to sound indifferent.

He dismounted gracefully, his movements fluid and confident. "Isabella, what a pleasant surprise to find you here. I didn't expect to see you in such a carefree setting."

I gave him a small, guarded smile. "And I didn't expect to see you here either. What brings you out to these fields?"

Edward fell into step beside me as we walked together. "I was in the area and thought I'd take a ride. When I spotted you, I couldn't resist the opportunity to join you for a bit."

We continued walking, the fields stretching out around us, their golden hues shimmering under the afternoon sun. The gentle breeze carried the scent of wildflowers, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

"I'm surprised you even noticed me," I said, attempting to keep the conversation light. "What with your busy schedule and all."

Edward chuckled, his laughter warm and infectious. "Oh, I notice everything about you, Isabella. It's hard not to when you make such an impression."

I rolled my eyes playfully. "Flattery, as always."

He smiled, his gaze meeting mine. "Not flattery—just the truth. Now, how about a ride? I've always thought you'd enjoy the view from my horse."

He mounted his horse and extended his hand towards me. I hesitated for a moment, then shrugged. "I can manage without your help."

He laughed softly, the sound like a gentle caress. "Stubborn as ever, I see."

I stepped closer, feeling his hand reach out to steady me as I climbed onto the horse behind him. His arms wrapped around my waist securely, and the warmth of his touch sent a shiver through me. I tried to steady my breath as the horse began to move.

As we began to gallop, the wind rushed through my hair, lifting it in a wild dance. The sensation was exhilarating, freeing. Edward's arms held me close, the rhythm of the horse's stride creating a sense of unity between us.
I smiled, feeling a flutter in my chest as we rode on, the landscape blurring around us. The sensation of the wind, the warmth of his embrace, and the rhythm of the horse created a perfect harmony—a brief respite from the complications of our lives. 

As the horse slowed to a stop, I dismounted gracefully with Edward's assistance. The fields stretched out before us, a canvas of golden hues and wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. Edward's eyes wandered down to my bare feet, and a playful smirk tugged at his lips.

"Are you going to explain why you're walking barefoot in a field, or is this some sort of rebellion against society?" he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "It's just a way to feel grounded, I suppose. But if you're so curious, why don't you join me?"

Without hesitation, Edward slipped off his shoes and tossed them aside. He looked up at me with a grin. "Lead the way."